Martina Navratilova, a Czech-American former professional tennis player, is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. She boasts an impressive record of 59 major titles in the Open Era, including 18 major singles titles, 31 major women's doubles titles, and 10 major mixed doubles titles. This remarkable achievement marks the highest number of major titles in the Open Era. Throughout the early to mid-1980s, Navratilova, alongside her biggest rival, Chris Evert, dominated women's tennis. She has left an indelible mark on the sport through her powerful and revolutionary style of play, fitness regime, and longevity.
1948: Czechoslovak Coup d'état
The 1948 Czechoslovak coup d'état established a communist regime in Czechoslovakia. This event is mentioned as part of Navratilova's political commentary in 2007.
October 18, 1956: Birth of Martina Navratilova
Martina Navratilova was born on October 18, 1956, in Prague, Czechoslovakia.
1962: Stepfather and Name Change
In 1962, Navratilova's mother remarried, and she took her stepfather's name, becoming Martina Navratilova.
1965: Start of Tennis Magazine's Greatest Player Evaluation Period
This entry marks the beginning of the period (1965-2005) considered by Tennis Magazine when naming Navratilova the greatest female tennis player.
1968: Start of the Open Era in Tennis
The Open Era in tennis began in 1968, marking a significant change in the sport. This date is relevant to Navratilova's record-breaking 1983 winning percentage, being the best since this era began.
1972: Czechoslovakia National Champion
At age 15, in 1972, Navratilova won the Czechoslovakia national tennis championship.
1973: US Debut and French Open Quarterfinals
In 1973, Navratilova made her debut on the USLTA professional tour and reached the quarterfinals of the French Open.
1974: First Major Title and Professional Debut
Navratilova won her first professional singles title and her first major title (mixed doubles) in 1974.
1974: First Professional Singles Title
Navratilova won her first professional singles title in Orlando, Florida, in 1974.
1975: Chris Evert's Reign Begins
In 1975, Chris Evert's dominance in women's tennis began.
1975: Defection and Green Card
In 1975, Navratilova defected from Czechoslovakia and received a green card from the United States.
1975: Major Singles Finals and First Major Doubles Title
In 1975, Navratilova was the runner-up at the Australian and French Opens and won her first major doubles title at the French Open.
1975: Turned Professional
Navratilova turned professional in 1975.
1976: Evonne Goolagong's Peak
Evonne Goolagong had a notable period in 1976 in women's tennis.
1976: Wimbledon Doubles Title
Navratilova and Chris Evert won the Wimbledon women's doubles title in 1976.
1977: Start of Top 3 Ranking Streak
In 1977, Navratilova began her 15-year streak ranked in the world's top 3 in singles.
1978: First Wimbledon Singles Title
Navratilova won her first Wimbledon singles title in 1978, defeating Chris Evert.
1978: Martina Navratilova's Rise
Martina Navratilova's prominent presence in women's tennis began in 1978.
January 1979: Reclaimed World No. 1 Ranking
Navratilova reclaimed the world No. 1 ranking in January 1979 after winning Wimbledon in 1978.
1980: Wimbledon Quarterfinal Victory over King
Navratilova defeated Billie Jean King in a memorable quarterfinal match at Wimbledon in 1980.
1980: Tracy Austin's Emergence
Tracy Austin emerged as a force in women's tennis in 1980.
April 1981: Double Bagel Loss and Training with Lieberman
In April 1981, Navratilova suffered a 6-0, 6-0 loss to Evert but began working with Nancy Lieberman, which marked a turning point in her career.
July 30, 1981: Comes Out as Bisexual
On July 30, 1981, Navratilova publicly came out as bisexual in an interview with the New York Daily News, revealing her relationship with Rita Mae Brown. She later re-identified as homosexual.
1981: US Citizenship and Openly Gay
Navratilova became a US citizen and came out as openly gay in 1981.
1981: Became US Citizen
Navratilova became a US citizen in 1981.
1981: Coaching Collaboration with Renée Richards
Navratilova began working with coach Renée Richards in 1981.
September 1982: Diagnosed with Toxoplasmosis
In September 1982, Navratilova suffered from an acute attack of toxoplasmosis, which contributed to her defeat at the US Open.
1982: Wimbledon and French Open Titles
Navratilova won both Wimbledon and the French Open in 1982.
1982: Start of Dominant Period
The period from 1982 to 1986 marked Navratilova's most dominant spell in professional tennis.
1982: Beginning of a Dominant Run at Wimbledon and French Open
1982 marked the start of Navratilova's consistent presence in the finals of major tournaments. Between 1982 and 1990, she reached the Wimbledon final nine times consecutively. She also appeared in five out of six French Open finals from 1982 to 1987.
1982: Wimbledon and French Open Titles
Navratilova won both Wimbledon and the French Open in 1982.
1982: Meets Judy Nelson
Navratilova met Judy Nelson at a tournament in Fort Worth in 1982.
1982: Co-authors Tennis My Way
In 1982, Navratilova co-wrote the tennis instruction book "Tennis My Way" with Mary Carillo.
1983: AP Female Athlete of the Year
Navratilova was named the Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year in 1983.
1983: Transition to Coach Mike Estep
Navratilova transitioned to coach Mike Estep in 1983.
1983: Career Grand Slam
Navratilova completed the career Grand Slam by winning the 1983 US Open.
1983: Appearance on "Hart to Hart"
Navratilova appeared as herself in an episode of "Hart to Hart" in 1983.
1983: Dominant Year with Three Major Titles
In 1983, Navratilova won three major titles and achieved an 86-1 record, marking a period of dominance in women's tennis.
1983: Start of Record-Breaking Doubles Streak
In 1983, Navratilova and Pam Shriver embarked on their record-breaking 109-match winning streak in women's doubles, marking the start of a period of doubles dominance.
1983: Record-Breaking Season
In 1983, Navratilova achieved the best professional season winning percentage (98.8%) with a record of 86-1.
1984: Vision Deterioration
Navratilova's vision began to deteriorate in 1984.
1984: Begins Relationship with Judy Nelson
Navratilova's relationship with Judy Nelson began in 1984.
1984: AP Female Athlete of the Year
Navratilova was named the Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year in 1984.
1984: Continued Dominance
Navratilova continued her dominant performance in 1984, with few losses.
1984: Continued Dominance
Navratilova continued her dominance in 1984, winning multiple titles and achieving a remarkable winning streak.
1984: Amelia Island Victory over Evert
Navratilova avenged her double bagel loss by defeating Evert in the finals of the Amelia Island tournament in 1984.
1984: Calendar Grand Slam in Women's Doubles and Dominant Streak
In 1984, Navratilova, partnering with Pam Shriver, achieved a Calendar Grand Slam in women's doubles. This win contributed to their impressive 109-match winning streak, which extended from 1983 to 1985. Navratilova's doubles success also led to her being ranked the world No. 1 doubles player for over three years in the 1980s.
1984: 1984 French Open Victory and Near-Calendar Grand Slam
In 1984, Navratilova achieved a significant milestone by winning the French Open. This victory meant she held all four major singles titles at the same time, a feat dubbed a "Grand Slam" by the ITF president. However, some argued it wasn't a true Grand Slam as the titles weren't won within a single calendar year. She then won Wimbledon and the US Open, extending her winning streak to a record-equaling six. She had the chance to win a true calendar Grand Slam at the Australian Open, but her 74-match winning streak (a record for a professional) was ended by Helena Suková in the semifinals. Notably, Navratilova's victories marked her as the first player to win majors on clay, grass, and hard court in the same year.
1985: Chris Evert's Reign Ends
By 1985, Chris Evert's time at the top of women's tennis came to a close.
1985: Continued Dominance and End of Doubles Streak
By 1985, Navratilova had reached the women's singles final at 11 major tournaments and won six of them since 1985. She also, with Pam Shriver, held a winning streak of 109 matches in doubles until 1985.
1985: Releases Autobiography
In 1985, Navratilova released her autobiography, titled "Martina" in the US and "Being Myself" internationally, co-written with George Vecsey.
1985: Begins Wearing Glasses
Navratilova began wearing glasses in 1985 due to deteriorating vision.
1985: Memorable French Open Final Against Chris Evert
The 1985 French Open final between Navratilova and Chris Evert is considered one of the greatest women's matches of all time. Navratilova mounted a comeback from a 3–6, 2–4 deficit to level the third set at 5–5, but Evert ultimately won 6–3, 6–7, 7–5.
1986: End of Coaching with Mike Estep
Navratilova's coaching relationship with Mike Estep concluded in 1986.
1986: US Open Victory and Continued Dominance
In 1986, Navratilova defeated Steffi Graf in a highly anticipated US Open semifinal match that stretched over two days, saving three match points. She then won the final against Helena Suková and secured the women's doubles title with Pam Shriver. Her victories over Graf continued at the WTA Tour Championship, solidifying her number-one ranking for the fifth year running.
1986: End of Dominant Period
1986 marked the end of Navratilova's most dominant unbroken spell in professional tennis.
1987: Wins at Wimbledon and US Open, Achieving the "Triple Crown"
Despite losses to Graf earlier in the year, Navratilova bounced back in 1987 by defeating Graf in the finals of both Wimbledon and the US Open. At the US Open, she achieved the "Triple Crown" by winning the women's singles, doubles, and mixed doubles titles, joining Margaret Court and Billie Jean King in this rare accomplishment. Although she reached all four Grand Slam finals that year, she lost the Australian Open to Hana Mandlíková. While Graf secured the year-end world No. 1 ranking due to more tournament wins throughout the year, Navratilova's two victories over her were Graf's only losses of 1987.
1987: Sustained Success in Singles Finals
In 1987, Navratilova continued her streak of reaching major tournament finals, appearing in all eleven women's singles finals over the three years from 1985-1987.
1987: Martina Navratilova's Continued Dominance
Martina Navratilova maintained her strong performance in women's tennis in 1987.
1988: Wimbledon Final Loss to Graf and Continued High Ranking
In 1988, Navratilova's only encounter with Graf was in the Wimbledon final, which Graf won after recovering from a set and a break down. Despite not reaching any other Grand Slam finals, Navratilova won nine other tournaments, maintaining her No. 2 ranking behind Graf.
1988: Partnership with Coach Craig Kardon
Navratilova started working with coach Craig Kardon in 1988.
1989: Grand Slam Finals Losses to Graf and Continued No. 2 Ranking
In 1989, Graf defeated Navratilova in the finals of both Wimbledon and the US Open, winning both deciding sets 6–1. Despite these losses and another to Graf at the WTA Tour Championships, Navratilova won eight titles and maintained the No. 2 ranking for the third consecutive year. Although Graf broke some of Navratilova's records, Navratilova still held a winning record against Graf in overall singles matches and Grand Slam singles matches.
1990: Wimbledon Finalist
Navratilova reached the Wimbledon singles final for the ninth consecutive year in 1990.
1990: Ninth Wimbledon Singles Title and Top 3 Ranking
In 1990, Navratilova won her record ninth Wimbledon singles title, defeating Zina Garrison in the final. She also won four other tournaments that year, despite not participating in the Australian or French Opens, finishing the year ranked world No. 3.
1990: Consistent Wimbledon Final Appearances
In 1990, Navratilova made her ninth straight appearance at the Wimbledon final, showcasing her long-lasting dominance on grass courts which started in 1982.
1990: Last Grand Slam Singles Title
1990 marked Navratilova's last Grand Slam singles title, achieved at Wimbledon. While she reached two more Grand Slam singles finals, her dominant reign in singles had effectively concluded.
1991: US Open Semifinal Victory Against Graf
In 1991, Navratilova defeated Graf in the US Open semifinals, marking her last victory against Graf in a major tournament and bringing her head-to-head Grand Slam record against Graf to 5-4. This win also ended their Grand Slam rivalry.
1991: US Open Final Loss to Monica Seles
In 1991, Navratilova reached the US Open final but lost to Monica Seles, then world No.1.
1991: Monica Seles' Rise
Monica Seles began her rise in women's tennis in 1991.
1991: Ends Relationship with Judy Nelson
Navratilova's relationship with Judy Nelson ended in 1991, resulting in a palimony lawsuit.
September 1992: Battle of the Sexes Match Against Jimmy Connors
In September 1992, Navratilova competed against Jimmy Connors in the third "Battle of the Sexes" tennis match. Connors played with the advantage of one serve per point, while Navratilova was allowed to hit into half the doubles court. Connors won the match.
1992: Legal Challenge to Amendment 2
In 1992, Navratilova participated in a lawsuit against Colorado's Amendment 2, which aimed to prevent sexual orientation from becoming a protected class.
1992: Mention in "Sailor Moon"
Navratilova was mentioned in an episode of the anime "Sailor Moon" in 1992.
1993: End of Top 3 Ranking Streak
In 1993, Navratilova's 15-year streak in the world's top 3 singles ranking concluded.
1993: March on Washington for LGBT Rights
Navratilova spoke at the March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation in 1993.
1994: Co-authors The Total Zone
Navratilova co-authored the mystery novel "The Total Zone" with Liz Nickles in 1994.
1994: Conclusion of Coaching with Craig Kardon
In 1994, Navratilova's coaching collaboration with Craig Kardon came to an end.
1994: Wimbledon Final and Retirement from Singles
At the age of 37, Navratilova reached the Wimbledon final in 1994, where she was defeated by Conchita Martínez. Following this and a loss to Gabriela Sabatini, Navratilova retired from full-time singles competition in November 1994.
1995: Arantxa Sánchez Vicario's Notable Year
Arantxa Sánchez Vicario had a significant year in women's tennis in 1995.
1996: Monica Seles' Peak Years End
By 1996, Monica Seles' top years in the sport were over.
1996: Co-authors Breaking Point
In 1996, Navratilova co-authored the mystery novel "Breaking Point" with Liz Nickles.
1996: PowerBook Endorsement
Navratilova appeared in a PowerBook advertisement in 1996.
1997: Co-authors Killer Instinct
In 1997, Navratilova co-authored the mystery novel "Killer Instinct" with Liz Nickles.
1997: Steffi Graf's Reign Ends
Steffi Graf's reign in women's tennis ended in 1997.
1998: Lindsay Davenport's Prominence
Lindsay Davenport's time in the spotlight of women's tennis started in 1998.
1999: Ranking in Steve Flink's Book
Steve Flink ranked Navratilova as the second-best female tennis player of the 20th century in his 1999 book.
2000: National Equality Award
In 2000, Navratilova received the National Equality Award from the Human Rights Campaign.
2000: Return to Tour
In 2000, Navratilova returned to the tennis tour, primarily focusing on doubles competitions with occasional singles matches.
2000: Induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame
In 2000, Navratilova was honored with induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the sport.
2000: Appearance on "Will & Grace"
Navratilova appeared as herself in a flashback sequence on "Will & Grace" in 2000.
2000: Laureus Sports Foundation Academy Membership
Navratilova became a member of the Laureus Sports Foundation's Academy in 2000.
2001: Martina Hingis' and Jennifer Capriati's Impact
Both Martina Hingis and Jennifer Capriati made their mark in women's tennis in 2001.
July 17, 2002: Appearance on CNN
On July 17, 2002, Navratilova was a guest on CNN's Connie Chung Tonight show.
2002: Williams Sisters' Emergence
Both Venus and Serena Williams made their presence felt in women's tennis in 2002.
2002: Singles Victory and Loss at Eastbourne
In 2002, Navratilova participated in singles competition at Eastbourne, where she defeated world No. 22 Tatiana Panova but lost in the following round to Daniela Hantuchová.
2003: Mixed Doubles Triumphs and Record-Breaking Achievements
In 2003, Navratilova won mixed doubles titles at the Australian Open and Wimbledon with partner Leander Paes, becoming the oldest major champion at 46 years and 8 months. These victories also allowed her to achieve a "boxed set" of major titles and equal Billie Jean King's record of 20 Wimbledon titles.
2003: Kim Clijsters and Justine Henin's Rise
Kim Clijsters and Justine Henin started making waves in women's tennis in 2003.
2004: Amélie Mauresmo's Entry
Amélie Mauresmo made her mark in women's tennis in 2004.
2004: Singles Matches at French Open and Wimbledon
In 2004, Navratilova returned to singles at the French Open after a 10-year absence but lost in the first round. At Wimbledon, she won a singles match, becoming the oldest player to do so in the Open Era, before losing in the second round.
2005: Maria Sharapova's Rise
Maria Sharapova began her ascent in women's tennis in 2005.
2005: Greatest Female Tennis Player Recognition
Tennis magazine named Navratilova the greatest female tennis player from 1965 to 2005.
April 2006: Dietary Shift
In April 2006, Martina Navratilova, a known vegetarian, stated she had reintroduced fish into her diet to maintain adequate protein intake while traveling.
July 6, 2006: Final Wimbledon Matches
On July 6, 2006, Navratilova played her final matches at Wimbledon, losing in both the women's doubles quarterfinals and the mixed doubles third round.
August 21, 2006: Final Women's Doubles Title
On August 21, 2006, Navratilova won her final women's doubles title at the Rogers Cup in Montreal with partner Nadia Petrova.
2006: Final Major Title
Navratilova won her last major title, the mixed doubles crown at the 2006 US Open.
2006: Lindsay Davenport's Reign Ends
Lindsay Davenport's time at the top of the sport finished in 2006.
2006: Publishes Shape Your Self
In 2006, Navratilova published the health and fitness book "Shape Your Self."
2006: Billie Jean King's Praise
In 2006, Billie Jean King lauded Navratilova as the greatest singles, doubles, and mixed doubles player ever.
2006: LGBT History Month Icon
Equality Forum named Navratilova one of their 31 Icons of LGBT History Month in 2006.
2007: Criticism of George W. Bush
In 2007, Navratilova publicly expressed shame about the U.S. under President George W. Bush's leadership.
January 9, 2008: Czech Citizenship Reacquired
On January 9, 2008, Navratilova reacquired Czech citizenship, becoming a dual citizen.
November 2008: I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!
In November 2008, Martina Navratilova appeared on the UK's ITV series "I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!" where she was the runner-up.
2008: Bud Collins' Acclaim
Bud Collins called Navratilova "arguably the greatest player of all time" in 2008.
2008: Justine Henin's Peak Ends and Ana Ivanovic & Jelena Janković's Emergence
Justine Henin's strongest years in the sport concluded in 2008, while Ana Ivanovic and Jelena Janković became more prominent figures.
2009: Philippe Chatrier Award
Navratilova received the ITF's Philippe Chatrier Award in 2009 for her contributions to tennis.
2009: Continued Participation in World TeamTennis
Navratilova continued her involvement in professional tennis by playing for the Boston Lobsters in the World TeamTennis pro league through the 2009 season.
2009: Dinara Safina and Jelena Janković's Strong Performances
Dinara Safina and Jelena Janković performed well in women's tennis in 2009.
January 2010: Mammogram Reveals Ductal Carcinoma
In January 2010, a routine mammogram revealed that Navratilova had ductal carcinoma in situ in her left breast.
April 7, 2010: Announces Breast Cancer Treatment
On April 7, 2010, Navratilova publicly announced that she was undergoing treatment for breast cancer.
December 2010: Hospitalized for High Altitude Pulmonary Edema
In December 2010, Navratilova was hospitalized with high altitude pulmonary edema while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
2010: Caroline Wozniacki's Rise
Caroline Wozniacki started her rise in the sport in 2010.
June 2011: 30 Legends of Women's Tennis
Time magazine named Navratilova one of the "30 Legends of Women's Tennis" in June 2011.
2011: Kim Clijsters' Later Success
Kim Clijsters had another successful period in 2011.
February 2012: Dancing with the Stars
In February 2012, Navratilova participated in season 14 of "Dancing with the Stars" with partner Tony Dovolani. They were the first couple eliminated.
March 2012: Second Greatest Female Tennis Player Ranking
The Tennis Channel ranked Navratilova as the second greatest female tennis player of all time in March 2012.
2012: Maria Sharapova and Victoria Azarenka's Rise
Both Maria Sharapova and Victoria Azarenka were prominent figures in the sport in 2012.
August 2, 2013: National Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame Induction
Navratilova was inducted into the National Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame on August 2, 2013.
2013: Victoria Azarenka's Continued Success
Victoria Azarenka continued to perform well in 2013.
September 6, 2014: Proposes to Julia Lemigova
On September 6, 2014, Navratilova proposed to her girlfriend, Julia Lemigova, at the US Open.
December 2014: Coaching Role with Agnieszka Radwańska
In December 2014, Navratilova joined Agnieszka Radwańska's coaching team.
December 15, 2014: Marries Julia Lemigova
Navratilova married Julia Lemigova in New York on December 15, 2014.
April 2015: End of Coaching Partnership with Radwańska
In April 2015, Navratilova and Radwańska decided to end their coaching partnership.
May 12, 2016: Honorary Fellow of Lucy Cavendish College
Navratilova was made an honorary fellow of Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge, on May 12, 2016.
2016: Angelique Kerber's Rise
Angelique Kerber made her mark in the sport in 2016.
2017: Serena Williams' Continued Dominance
Serena Williams sustained her strong performance in the sport in 2017.
2018: Caroline Wozniacki's Prominence
Caroline Wozniacki maintained her strong presence in women's tennis in 2018.
2018: Documentary Announcement
In 2018, it was announced that a documentary about Martina Navratilova was being developed by Glenn Greenwald, with Reese Witherspoon's production company, Hello Sunshine.
February 2019: Transgender Athletes Controversy
In February 2019, Navratilova wrote an article for The Times expressing her views on transgender women in sports, leading to her removal from Athlete Ally's advisory board.
March 2019: Apology and Call for Debate on Transgender Athletes
In March 2019, Navratilova apologized for using the term "cheating" in the transgender athlete debate and called for a science-based discussion.
April 2019: Critique of the Equality Act
Navratilova critiqued the Equality Act in an April 2019 Washington Post article, arguing it could prevent differentiation among girls and women in sports based on sex.
June 2019: BBC Documentary on Transgender Athletes
In June 2019, the BBC aired a documentary featuring Navratilova interviewing various individuals on the topic of transgender women in sports.
2019: The Politician
In 2019, Navratilova had a recurring role as Brigitte, a horse trainer, in the Netflix series "The Politician".
2019: Naomi Osaka, Ashleigh Barty, and Simona Halep's Strong Performances
Naomi Osaka, Ashleigh Barty, and Simona Halep were notable figures in women's tennis in 2019.
August 2020: Support for Idaho Law on Transgender Athletes
In August 2020, Navratilova signed a letter to the NCAA supporting an Idaho law banning transgender women from competing in women's sports.
2021: Leadership in Women's Sports Policy Working Group
In 2021, Navratilova became a leader of the Women's Sports Policy Working Group, advocating for protecting women's sports while accommodating transgender athletes.
2022: Ashleigh Barty and Iga Świątek's Impact
Ashleigh Barty and Iga Świątek made their presence felt in the sport in 2022.
January 2023: Diagnosed with Throat and Breast Cancer
In January 2023, Navratilova was diagnosed with stage one throat and breast cancer after discovering a swollen lymph node.
March 2023: Declared Cancer-Free
In March 2023, Navratilova announced she was cancer-free after treatment.
April 2023: Nike Boycott
Navratilova supported a boycott of Nike in April 2023 due to their sponsorship of transgender woman Dylan Mulvaney.
October 2023: Criticism of Deb Haaland's Interview
In October 2023, Navratilova criticized US Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland for interviewing drag queen Pattie Gonia.
2023: Aryna Sabalenka's Prominence
Aryna Sabalenka became a prominent figure in women's tennis in 2023.
2024: Documentary Confirmation
During an interview at the Salesforce World Tour London 2024 event, Navratilova confirmed that a documentary about her and Chris Evert was being filmed and set to release in 2025.
2024: Iga Świątek and Aryna Sabalenka's Performances
Iga Świątek and Aryna Sabalenka continued performing well in 2024.
2024: Criticism of IOC for Transgender Athletes in Olympics
Navratilova criticized the IOC for allowing transgender women boxers, Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting, to compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics.
2025: Documentary Release
A documentary about Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert is expected to be released in 2025.