Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has announced that she’ll retire this year. Martina, who will turn 50 in October, has not yet decided on her last tournament, but insists, “It’s time.” She says she wants to spend more time at home, promoting her new book, and “devoting more time to her partner, her animals and her fundraising work on behalf of gay and lesbian organizations in the United States (Washington Post).” She may also coach or do TV commentary.
Although, as she points out, her WTA pension will kick in this fall, Martina has made the Wimbledon quarterfinals in women’s doubles and the third round in mixed doubles this year, and may yet go further. ESPN lists even more amazing Martina facts:
- 167 singles titles, more than any man or woman.
- 331 weeks atop the world rankings as a singles player, another record.
- 58 Grand Slam titles — 18 singles, 31 doubles and nine mixed doubles — two behind all-time leader Margaret Court Smith of Australia
Will she beat Court’s record and win two more titles this year? Honestly, I think the odds are against it, but would bet that Martina will fight till the end. She’s one of those rare athletes who, after reaching the top of her sport, has continued to compete for the pure love of the game.
She’s also been a lesbian icon since before it was fashionable, and has put her money and effort where her fans are. I wish her the best of luck finding family time in retirement, but am also glad she’s going to continue championing our cause.