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Photo: Andrew Campbell (CC BY 2.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Martina
Navratilova
Career overview
With an impressive tally of 59 major titles, including 18 Grand Slam singles championships, she dominated women's tennis for decades and remains an influential figure in the sport.
Visit the official Martina Navratilova site →
Career honours
1Grand Slam singles titles · 18 titles (1978-2006)18
1Grand Slam doubles titles · 31 titles (1975-2003)31
2Grand Slam mixed doubles titles · 10 titles (1974-2006)10
2Wimbledon singles titles · 9 titles (1978-1990)9
3Career titles · 167 singles titles (Open Era record)
3Career doubles titles · 177 doubles titles (Open Era record)
3Weeks at No. 1 · 332 weeks in singles (second-most all time)
3Year-end No. 1 finishes · 7 times in singles7
Records
RMost Grand Slam singles titles · 18 titles.
RMost Wimbledon singles titles · 9 titles.
RMost career titles in singles · 167 titles.
RMost career titles in doubles · 177 titles.
Biography
Early Life & Origins
Martina Navratilova was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, and began playing tennis at a young age. Her mother, an accomplished athlete, introduced her to the sport, and Navratilova quickly excelled, winning the national championship at just 15. In 1975, she defected to the United States, seeking political asylum, and became a U.S. citizen in 1981.
Rise to Prominence
Navratilova's professional career took off in the late 1970s, marked by her first major singles title at Wimbledon in 1978. She became known for her powerful serve and athleticism, quickly rising to the top of the women's game. By the early 1980s, she established herself as a dominant force, winning multiple Grand Slam titles and setting records that would define her legacy.
Playing Style & Technique
Renowned for her left-handed play and one-handed backhand, Navratilova's style combined aggressive net play with exceptional fitness and speed. She adopted innovative training methods, including a fitness regimen developed with basketball player Nancy Lieberman, which contributed to her longevity and success on the court. Her versatility allowed her to excel on all surfaces, making her a formidable opponent.
Defining Moments & Biggest Achievements
Navratilova's career is highlighted by her record nine Wimbledon singles titles and a total of 59 major titles across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. She achieved a remarkable winning percentage of 98.9% in 1983, one of the best seasons in tennis history. Her last major title came at the 2006 US Open, where she won the mixed doubles crown shortly before her 50th birthday.
Rivalries & Era Context
Navratilova's rivalry with Chris Evert defined women's tennis in the late 20th century. Their contrasting styles and personalities captivated fans, leading to numerous memorable matches, including several Grand Slam finals. This rivalry not only elevated both players' careers but also significantly increased the popularity of women's tennis during their era.
Legacy & Impact
Martina Navratilova's impact extends beyond her on-court achievements; she has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and health awareness. Her openness about her sexuality in the 1980s was groundbreaking, and she continues to influence future generations of athletes. Navratilova's legacy is marked by her contributions to the sport and her role as a pioneer for equality.
Stats in detail
Grand Slams by Tournament
Navratilova's Grand Slam singles titles showcase her dominance across all major tournaments.
| Australian Open | 3 titles (1981, 1983, 1985) |
| French Open | 2 titles (1982, 1984) |
| Wimbledon | 9 titles (1978-1990) |
| US Open | 4 titles (1983, 1984, 1986, 1987) |
Titles & Finals
Navratilova's impressive record of titles and finals reflects her competitive excellence.
| Singles titles | 167 |
| Doubles titles | 177 |
| Mixed doubles titles | 10 |
| Total finals reached | over 300 |
By Surface
Navratilova's winning percentages highlight her versatility on different court surfaces.
| Grass win percentage | over 90% |
| Clay win percentage | over 80% |
| Hard court win percentage | over 85% |
Career Overview
A comprehensive look at Navratilova's overall career achievements.
| Career win-loss record | 1442-219 |
| Total weeks at No. 1 | 332 |
| Total prize money | $21,626,089 |
| Career doubles win-loss record | 747-143 |
Career timeline
1974Navratilova turned professional.
1975Defected to the United States and sought political asylum.
1978Won her first major singles title at Wimbledon.
1981Became a U.S. citizen.
1983Achieved a record winning percentage of 98.9%.
2000Inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
2006Won her last major title in mixed doubles at the US Open.
Martina Navratilova career moments
- January 9: Navratilova reacquired Czech citizenship, thus becoming a dual citizen.
- April 7: Navratilova announced that she was being treated for breast cancer.
- May 12: Navratilova was made an honorary fellow of Lucy Cavendish College of the University of Cambridge.
- July 17: Navratilova was a guest on CNN's Connie Chung Tonight show on July 17, 2002.
- August 2: Navratilova was among the first class of inductees into the National Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame.
- October 28: Navratilova was awarded Order of the White Lion, III Class by Czech President Petr Pavel.
Latest Navratilova News
All 98 stories →
Tennis · Club News
Martina Navratilova Welcomes WTA's SRY Gene Testing Policy
Tennis · Player Focus
Martina Navratilova defends WTA’s sex-testing policy amid fierce backlash
Tennis · Opinion
Martina Navratilova slams new sex-test rules in women's tennis
Tennis · Opinion
Martina Navratilova blasts Donald Trump with two-word condemnation after World Cup final antics
Tennis · Opinion
Martina Navratilova clarifies WTA policy stance after genetic testing rule change
Frequently asked
What is Martina Navratilova's net worth?
Martina Navratilova's estimated net worth is around $25 million.
How tall is Martina Navratilova?
Martina Navratilova is 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall.
How old is Martina Navratilova?
Martina Navratilova was born on October 18, 1956, making her 69 years old.
Is Martina Navratilova retired / still playing?
Martina Navratilova is retired from professional tennis.
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