Martina Navratilova

Martina Navratilova is a Czechoslovak-born American former professional tennis player and coach, born on October 18, 1956, in Prague, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic). She is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of tennis. Navratilova began her professional career in 1975 and dominated women's tennis for more than a decade.

Navratilova is known for her aggressive play, versatility, and endurance. She has won numerous individual awards, including an astounding 18 Grand Slam singles titles, 31 Grand Slam women's doubles titles, and 10 Grand Slam mixed doubles titles.

Off the court, Navratilova is also recognized for her bravery and influence, as she was one of the first openly gay athletes and has been a prominent advocate for LGBT rights.

Amateur Career

• Youth and Early Career: Navratilova was born and raised in Prague and showed exceptional talent from a young age. She turned professional in 1975, at the age of 18.

Early Professional Career

• Early Success: Navratilova quickly rose to prominence, reaching the finals of the 1975 US Open and winning her first Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon in 1978.

Peak Years

• Dominance: From 1982 to 1986, Navratilova dominated women's tennis, winning 15 of her 18 Grand Slam singles titles during this period. She also completed a career Grand Slam, winning all four major tournaments in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.

Late Career and Retirement

• Continued Success: Despite the rise of younger competitors, Navratilova continued to win Grand Slam titles into her late thirties. She retired from professional tennis in 2006.

Czechoslovakia National Team

• Early Career: Represented Czechoslovakia early in her career, winning the Federation Cup in 1975.

United States National Team

• Later Career: After becoming a US citizen in 1981, Navratilova represented the United States in international competition, winning the Federation Cup four times and the Wightman Cup eight times.

• Playing Style: Known for her attacking serve-and-volley style, strong left-handed serve, and exceptional fitness and agility. Navratilova is celebrated for her versatility, able to excel on all surfaces and in both singles and doubles play.

• Family: Navratilova married Julia Lemigova in 2014. She has two adopted daughters.
• Activism: Navratilova is a prominent advocate for LGBT rights and has been open about her own sexuality since the early 1980s.

• Martina Navratilova is celebrated not only for her extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for her bravery, honesty, and advocacy for LGBT rights. Her impact on the sport and her status as an icon extend beyond the tennis court, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Singles Titles in Open Era:

• 167 singles titles

Most Doubles Titles in Open Era:

• 177 doubles titles

Most Grand Slam Singles Titles:

• 18 Grand Slam singles titles

Most Grand Slam Doubles Titles:

• 31 Grand Slam women's doubles titles
• 10 Grand Slam mixed doubles titles

Books

• Navratilova, M., and Vecsey, G. (1985) Martina. New York: Alfred A. Knopf.
• Navratilova, M., and Underwood, L. (2006) Shape Your Self: My 6-Step Diet and Fitness Plan to Achieve the Best Shape of Your Life. New York: Rodale Books.

Websites

• WTA: Information about Martina Navratilova’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.wtatennis.com
• International Tennis Hall of Fame: Details about Navratilova’s career and legacy. Available at: https://www.tennisfame.com

Articles

• BBC Sport: Martina Navratilova: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/tennis/34438277
• The Guardian: Martina Navratilova’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/martina-navratilova

Interviews and Documentaries

• The Power of One (2013): Directed by Claudia Tosi. This documentary provides a detailed look at Navratilova’s life and career, featuring interviews with her family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Martina Navratilova, covering different aspects of her career. Available at: https://www.espn.com