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Chang, Seles titles among top Paris memories

The most memorable French Open matches from the last 30 years

Image: Monica Seles AP file
Monica Seles used power and precision to defeat Steffi Graf in the 1990 French Open women's singles final, says Bud Collins of NBCSports.com.

5. McEnroe loses 1984 title to Lendl
McEnroe let go a two-sets-to-love lead against Lendl. Johnny Mac had the Czech on the ropes and just couldn’t close the door.

Had he won the French, McEnroe would have completed a career Grand Slam. It was the only time that I can remember McEnroe freezing up in a big match when all the chips were on the table.

6. Courier makes comeback to beat Agassi
Courier rallied after being down two sets to one against Agassi.

The two Americans had been former roommates at Nick Bollettieri’s Tennis Academy in Florida and the coach chose Andre over Jim, who stewed about it for years and delivered a few hard glares at Bollettieri during the final.

The clouds opened up and Courier took advantage of the rain break to consult with his new coach, Jose Higueras, and decided to stand way back of the baseline to retrieve Agassi’s blows.

A confused Agassi lost the contest and later blamed Bollettieri for not coming into the locker room to consult with him.

It was a defining moment for both players.

7. Evert beats Navratilova in 1986
Evert upended Navratilova 2-6, 6-3, 6-3 to win her record seventh Roland Garros women's singles crown.

Martina had had all but owned America’s sweetheart from 1982 through the beginning of 1985, but Chris kept plugging and in 1986 she had regained her confidence and consistency.

Her beating Navratilova enabled her to set yet another record -- she’s the only woman to win at least one Grand Slam for 13 years running.

© 2012 MSNBC Interactive


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