Martina Navratilova is a legendary Czech-American former professional tennis player and one of the greatest athletes of all time. She was born Martina Šubertová on October 18, 1956. Her stage name is Martina Navratilova. In 2026, her age is 69 years old. She was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic).
Martina Navratilova stands 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall. Her weight is around 146 lb (66 kg). She is famous for her record 59 Grand Slam titles, including a record nine Wimbledon singles championships. She also holds the record for the most singles titles (167) and doubles titles (177) in the Open Era.
Martina Navratilova’s estimated net worth in 2026 is $25 million. She has earned her wealth through a legendary tennis career, commentary work, endorsements, and wise investments. This article shares her full bio, stats, and legacy.
Martina Navratilova Wiki/Bio
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Martina Šubertová |
| Stage Name | Martina Navratilova |
| Age (2026) | 69 years |
| Birth Date | October 18, 1956 |
| Birthplace | Prague, Czechoslovakia |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (173 cm) |
| Weight | 146 lb (66 kg) |
| Profession | Professional Tennis Player (retired), Commentator, Author, Activist |
| Career Start | 1975 (turned professional) |
| Famous Works | 59 Grand Slam titles, 9 Wimbledon singles titles |
| Albums / Projects | Autobiography “Martina” (1985) |
| Record Label | N/A |
| Family | Mother: Jana Navratilova; Father: Miroslav Šubert |
| Marital Status | Married to Julia Lemigova (since 2014) |
| Children | 2 sons (adopted in 2024) |
| Achievements | 59 Grand Slam titles, 167 singles titles, 177 doubles titles |
| Net Worth | $25 million |
| Income Sources | Prize money ($21.6M), endorsements, commentary, speaking, investments |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Body Type | Athletic |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
| Plays | Left-handed (one-handed backhand) |
Martina Navratilova Real Name
Martina Navratilova’s full birth name is Martina Šubertová. She was given this name at birth by her parents. She later adopted the surname Navratilova after her mother married Miroslav Navrátil in 1962.
The name change was a significant moment in her life. Her stepfather became her first tennis coach. She uses Martina Navratilova as her professional and public name. Her real name reflects her Czech heritage.
She became a U.S. citizen in 1981. She holds dual Czech and American nationality. Her real name is synonymous with tennis excellence and courage.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Name | Martina Šubertová |
| Married Name | Martina Navratilova |
| Name Origin | Czech |
| Citizenship | Czech-American |
Martina Navratilova Early Life and Education
Martina Navratilova was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia. She spent her early years in a ski lodge in the Krkonoše Mountains, where her father was a ski instructor. Her parents divorced when she was three years old.
She and her mother, Jana, moved to a suburb of Prague. Her mother remarried in 1962. Her stepfather, Miroslav Navrátil, introduced her to tennis. She started playing tennis at the age of eight.
She quickly became the top junior player in Czechoslovakia. She was ranked number one in Czechoslovakia from 1972 to 1975. At age 18, she defected to the United States in 1975. Her early life was defined by resilience and determination.
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Prague, Czechoslovakia |
| Early Home | Ski lodge in Krkonoše Mountains |
| Parents Divorced | Age 3 |
| Started Tennis | Age 8 |
| Defected to U.S. | 1975 (age 18) |
Martina Navratilova Parents and Siblings
Martina Navratilova’s biological father was Miroslav Šubert, a ski instructor. Her mother is Jana Navratilova. Her mother was an accomplished gymnast, tennis player, and ski instructor. Her parents divorced when Martina was three years old. Her mother later married Miroslav Navrátil in 1962.
Martina has a younger sister named Jana. She also has an older paternal half-brother. She did not learn about her half-brother until she was 23 years old. Her grandmother, Agnes Semanska, was a tennis player for the Czechoslovakian Federation before World War II.
Her mother died in 2008 at the age of 75. Her family history is complex but influential. Her grandmother’s tennis legacy inspired her.
| Family Member | Relationship | Occupation / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Miroslav Šubert | Biological Father | Ski instructor |
| Jana Navratilova | Mother | Gymnast, tennis player, ski instructor |
| Miroslav Navrátil | Stepfather | First tennis coach |
| Jana | Sister | Younger sister |
| Unknown | Half-brother | Older paternal half-brother |
| Agnes Semanska | Grandmother | Tennis player |
Martina Navratilova Wife and Children
Martina Navratilova is married to Julia Lemigova. Julia is a former Miss USSR and star of The Real Housewives of Miami. They met at the French Open in 2008. They married in 2014.
The couple made history in 2021 as the first same-sex couple to appear on the Real Housewives franchise. In August 2024, they adopted two sons. The adoption came after Martina was declared cancer-free.
Martina and Julia have a combined net worth of $28 million in 2026. They live with their family in Miami, Florida. Their relationship is a testament to love and resilience.
| Relationship Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Julia Lemigova (m. 2014) |
| Met | French Open, 2008 |
| Children | 2 sons (adopted 2024) |
| Combined Net Worth | $28 million |
Martina Navratilova Age, Height, Weight and Physical Appearance
In 2026, Martina Navratilova is 69 years old. She was born on October 18, 1956. Her height is 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm). Her weight is approximately 146 lb (66 kg). She has an athletic body type.
Martina has blue eyes and blonde hair. She is a left-handed player with a one-handed backhand. She is known for her powerful serve and volleys. She maintains her appearance through a healthy lifestyle.
She is a public figure with a strong presence. Her physical appearance reflects her athletic and competitive nature. She is a role model for athletes of all ages.
| Physical Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Age (2026) | 69 years |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (173 cm) |
| Weight | 146 lb (66 kg) |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Body Type | Athletic |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
| Plays | Left-handed (one-handed backhand) |
Martina Navratilova Before Fame
Before fame, Martina Navratilova was a young girl in Prague with a dream. She started playing tennis at age eight. She quickly became the top junior player in Czechoslovakia. She won the Czechoslovakia national tennis championship at age 15 in 1972.
At age 18, she made the bold decision to defect to the United States. She left behind her family and country. She sought freedom and opportunity. She was granted political asylum in the U.S.
Her early success was a sign of greatness to come. She turned professional in 1975. Her defection was a risky but rewarding move. It allowed her to become one of the greatest tennis players in history.
| Before Fame Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Started Tennis | Age 8 |
| National Champion | Czechoslovakia (1972, age 15) |
| Defected to U.S. | 1975 (age 18) |
| Turned Professional | 1975 |
Martina Navratilova Career
Martina Navratilova’s professional career is one of the most decorated in tennis history. She turned professional in 1975. She won her first Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon in 1978. She dominated women’s tennis in the late 1970s and 1980s.
She won a record nine Wimbledon singles titles (1978, 1979, 1982-1987, 1990). She also won the US Open four times (1983, 1984, 1986, 1987), the Australian Open three times (1981, 1983, 1985), and the French Open twice (1982, 1984). In total, she won 18 Grand Slam singles titles.
She was equally dominant in doubles. She won 31 women’s doubles and 10 mixed doubles Grand Slam titles. Her total of 59 Grand Slam titles is second only to Margaret Court. She holds the all-time record for 167 singles titles and 177 doubles titles. She retired from competitive tennis in 2006. She now works as a commentator for the BBC.
| Career Milestone | Year/Details |
|---|---|
| Turned Professional | 1975 |
| First Grand Slam Win | 1978 Wimbledon |
| 18 Grand Slam Singles Titles | 1978-1990 |
| 59 Grand Slam Titles Total | Including 41 doubles titles |
| Record 167 Singles Titles | Open Era record |
| Retired | 2006 |
Martina Navratilova Social Media Presence
Martina Navratilova is active on Twitter (X) . Her handle is @Martina. She uses it to share her opinions on tennis, politics, and social issues. She is known for her outspoken and unfiltered commentary.
She is also active on Instagram. She posts photos from her personal life and public appearances. She shares moments with her wife and sons. Her social media presence is authentic and engaging.
Her social media reflects her bold and courageous personality. She uses it to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and other causes. She is one of the most followed tennis legends online.
| Platform | Handle | Followers (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Twitter (X) | @Martina | |
| @martinanavratilova |
Martina Navratilova Net Worth
As of 2026, Martina Navratilova’s net worth is estimated at $25 million. Some sources estimate her combined net worth with her wife at $28 million. She has built her fortune through decades of success on and off the court.
Her official WTA career prize money is $21,626,089. This would be worth much more today with inflation. She also earned millions from endorsements with brands like Yonex, Fila, Avia, Denon, and Thorlo.
She has been financially savvy with her investments. She has invested in real estate and stocks. In 2025, she became a minority owner of the women’s soccer team Carolina Ascent FC. Her total career earnings, including endorsements and media work, are believed to be over $50 million.
| Income Source | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| Career Prize Money | $21,626,089 |
| Endorsements | Yonex, Fila, Avia, Denon, Thorlo |
| Media & Commentary | BBC Wimbledon coverage |
| Investments | Real estate, stocks, Carolina Ascent FC |
| Total Net Worth | $25 million |
Martina Navratilova Legacy and Impact
Martina Navratilova is widely considered one of the greatest tennis players in history. She won 59 Grand Slam titles, including a record nine Wimbledon singles championships. She holds the Open Era records for most singles titles (167) and doubles titles (177).
Her legacy is one of perseverance and excellence. She raised the standard for athleticism and professionalism in women’s tennis. She was ranked world No. 1 in singles for 332 weeks. She was also world No. 1 in doubles for a record 237 weeks.
She is a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ rights. She came out as gay in 1981. She lost millions in endorsements but never compromised her integrity. She was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2000. Her impact on tennis and society is immeasurable.
| Legacy Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| Grand Slam Titles | 59 |
| Wimbledon Singles Titles | 9 (record) |
| Singles Titles (Open Era) | 167 (record) |
| Doubles Titles (Open Era) | 177 (record) |
| Weeks at No. 1 (Singles) | 332 |
| Hall of Fame Induction | 2000 |
Martina Navratilova Nationality and Religion
Martina Navratilova holds dual Czech and American nationality. She was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia. She became a U.S. citizen in 1981. She has never renounced her Czech citizenship. Her nationality is Czech-American.
Regarding religion, Martina has said, “I’m not any religion. I don’t know if my mother is Catholic or not. But I believe in the existence of a higher power”. She was raised in a Christian household. She does not practice any formal religion. Her beliefs are private and personal.
She celebrates American and Czech holidays and traditions. She is a cultural icon in both countries. Her tennis career brought pride to her adopted and native nations. She is loved by fans across the world.
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Czech-American |
| Ethnicity | Czech-White |
| Religion | Spiritual (not formal) |
| Current Residence | Miami, Florida, USA |
Martina Navratilova Future Plans and Goals
Martina Navratilova continues to work as a commentator for the BBC at Wimbledon. She remains a prominent voice in tennis. She is also a star on The Real Housewives of Miami.
She is focused on her family and health. She was diagnosed with throat and breast cancer in 2022. She was declared cancer-free in 2023. She has spoken about her recovery and resilience.
She wants to continue to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She also wants to inspire others facing health challenges. She said, “You persevere. You get knocked down and you keep getting up”. Her future is bright and full of promise.
| Future Plan | Details |
|---|---|
| Broadcasting | BBC Wimbledon commentary |
| Reality TV | The Real Housewives of Miami |
| Advocacy | LGBTQ+ rights |
| Family | Raising her two sons |
Martina Navratilova Awards and Achievements
Martina Navratilova has received numerous awards in her career. She was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2000. She has been named WTA Player of the Year seven times and ITF World Champion six times.
She has received the Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year award twice. In 2003, she was presented with the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2006, she received the Czech Sport Legend Award. In 2009, she was given the Philippe Chatrier Award for her contributions to tennis.
She won a record 167 singles titles and 329 trophies overall. Her achievements are a testament to her talent and dedication. She is a legend in the world of sports.
| Award / Achievement | Year / Details |
|---|---|
| International Tennis Hall of Fame | 2000 |
| WTA Player of the Year | 7 times |
| ITF World Champion | 6 times |
| AP Female Athlete of the Year | 2 times |
| BBC Lifetime Achievement Award | 2003 |
Martina Navratilova Business Ventures
Martina Navratilova has several business ventures outside tennis. She has invested in real estate and stocks. In 2025, she purchased a 3% to 5% stake in the women’s soccer team Carolina Ascent FC. This was her first sports team investment.
She has been associated with major brands like Nike, Reebok, and Rolex. She has her own line of clothing and accessories. She has also authored several books. Her autobiography “Martina” was published in 1985.
She is a savvy entrepreneur. Her business acumen is impressive. She is building a legacy beyond tennis.
| Business | Role / Ownership |
|---|---|
| Carolina Ascent FC | Minority owner (3-5% stake) |
| Real Estate | Investor |
| Clothing Line | Owner |
| Author | Autobiography “Martina” (1985) |
Martina Navratilova Fashion and Brand
Martina Navratilova’s fashion has evolved over her career. She was known for her habitual shorts and collared shirt on the court. She later adopted a more feminine look, wearing skirts and trendy tops. Her style is athletic and functional.
Her brand is built on excellence and integrity. She represents hard work and dedication. Her image is bold and authentic. She is a role model for athletes and activists.
She is not afraid to speak her mind about fashion. She has commented on sexist and divisive outfits. Her style remains influential and respected. She is a true style icon in the sports world.
| Fashion Item | Signature |
|---|---|
| Tennis Wear | Shorts, collared shirts, skirts |
| Off-Court | Casual and elegant |
| Brand | Authentic and bold |
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Martina Navratilova Public Image
Martina Navratilova is viewed as a tennis legend and courageous activist. She is known for her talent, honesty, and outspokenness. Her public image has evolved from animosity to acceptance to adulation.
She faced significant backlash when she came out as gay in 1981. She lost millions in endorsements. However, she never compromised her integrity. She is now celebrated as a pioneer for LGBTQ+ rights.
She has faced criticism for her comments on transgender women in sports. She remains a polarizing but respected figure. Her public image is that of a true champion. She is a role model for millions.
| Public Perception | Rating (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Talent | 10 |
| Courage | 10 |
| Controversy Level | 6 |
| Fan Respect | 9 |
Martina Navratilova Category Section
Martina Navratilova is a professional tennis player (athlete). According to the category rule, she falls under Athlete / Player. Therefore, we present her career stats and achievements in a table format.
Martina Navratilova Career Stats / Achievements
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Grand Slam Singles Titles | 18 |
| Grand Slam Doubles Titles | 31 (women’s) + 10 (mixed) |
| Total Grand Slam Titles | 59 |
| Wimbledon Singles Titles | 9 (record) |
| Total Singles Titles | 167 (Open Era record) |
| Total Doubles Titles | 177 (Open Era record) |
| Weeks at World No. 1 (Singles) | 332 |
| Weeks at World No. 1 (Doubles) | 237 (record) |
| Career Win-Loss Record | 1,442–219 |
| Career Prize Money | $21,626,089 |
Martina Navratilova Matches List (Selected)
Here are 20 notable matches from Martina Navratilova’s career (in bullet points):
- 1978 Wimbledon Final (first Grand Slam singles title)
- 1979 Wimbledon Final (second Wimbledon title)
- 1981 Australian Open Final (first Australian Open title)
- 1982 French Open Final (first French Open title)
- 1982 Wimbledon Final (third Wimbledon title)
- 1983 Wimbledon Final (fourth Wimbledon title)
- 1983 US Open Final (first US Open title)
- 1984 French Open Final (second French Open title)
- 1984 Wimbledon Final (fifth Wimbledon title)
- 1984 US Open Final (second US Open title)
- 1985 Australian Open Final (third Australian Open title)
- 1985 Wimbledon Final (sixth Wimbledon title)
- 1986 Wimbledon Final (seventh Wimbledon title)
- 1986 US Open Final (third US Open title)
- 1987 Wimbledon Final (eighth Wimbledon title)
- 1987 US Open Final (fourth US Open title)
- 1990 Wimbledon Final (ninth and final Wimbledon title)
- 1994 Wimbledon Doubles Final (with Jana Novotná)
- 2003 Australian Open Mixed Doubles Final (with Leander Paes)
- 2006 US Open (final professional match)
Martina Navratilova Hobbies
- Playing tennis (of course)
- Spending time with her wife and sons
- Commentating on tennis for the BBC
- Reading books and magazines
- Writing and advocating for causes
- Traveling to new places
- Investing in businesses and real estate
- Supporting LGBTQ+ and health charities
Martina Navratilova Favorite Things
- Food: Not publicly known
- Color: Not publicly known
- Movie: Not publicly known
- Tennis Player: Not publicly known
- Surface: Grass (she dominated at Wimbledon)
- Holiday Destination: Not publicly known
- Sport: Tennis
- Car: Not publicly known
- Drink: Not publicly known
- Book: Not publicly known
Martina Navratilova Interesting Facts
- Martina Navratilova was born Martina Šubertová in Prague, Czechoslovakia, on October 18, 1956.
- She defected to the United States at age 18 in 1975.
- She became a U.S. citizen in 1981.
- She holds the record for nine Wimbledon singles titles.
- She won 59 Grand Slam titles in total.
- She holds the Open Era records for most singles titles (167) and doubles titles (177).
- She was publicly outed as gay by a newspaper in 1981.
- She lost millions in endorsements because of her sexuality.
- She married Julia Lemigova in 2014.
- She was diagnosed with throat and breast cancer in 2022 and declared cancer-free in 2023.
FAQs
1. How old is Martina Navratilova in 2026?
She is 69 years old. She was born on October 18, 1956.
2. What is Martina Navratilova’s real name?
Her real name is Martina Šubertová. She later took the surname Navratilova.
3. What is Martina Navratilova’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated at $25 million as of 2026.
4. Is Martina Navratilova married?
Yes, she is married to Julia Lemigova. They married in 2014.
5. Does Martina Navratilova have children?
Yes, she has two sons, adopted in August 2024.
6. How many Grand Slam titles did Martina Navratilova win?
She won 59 Grand Slam titles, including 18 in singles, 31 in women’s doubles, and 10 in mixed doubles.
7. What is Martina Navratilova famous for?
She is famous for being one of the greatest tennis players of all time, with a record nine Wimbledon singles titles and 59 Grand Slam titles.
Conclusion
Martina Navratilova, whose real name is Martina Šubertová, is a tennis legend in 2026. Her stage name Martina Navratilova is known worldwide. At 69 years old, she continues to inspire millions. She was born October 18, 1956 in Prague, Czechoslovakia. Her height is 5 feet 8 inches and her weight is 146 lb. Her career started in 1975 when she turned professional.
She won 18 Grand Slam singles titles and a record nine Wimbledon championships. She also won 31 women’s doubles and 10 mixed doubles Grand Slam titles, for a total of 59. Her estimated net worth is $25 million. She has earned $21.6 million in career prize money and is a successful commentator, author, and businesswoman.
Martina Navratilova’s legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time is secure. Her courage, talent, and determination are legendary. She is a devoted wife and mother. She overcame personal struggles and health challenges to achieve success. She is, and always will be, a tennis icon.
