Martina Navratilova on Trump's America: 'I Wouldn't Have Left Home'

Sat Oct 18 2025 09:19:51 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

**Martina Navratilova on Trump's America: 'I Wouldn't Have Left Home'**

Martina Navratilova expresses deep concerns about the current political climate in the U.S., stating that under President Trump's leadership, she would not have come to America.

Martina Navratilova, the legendary tennis champion, reflects on her defection from communist Czechoslovakia and critiques the current political situation in the U.S. during an interview with BBC's Amol Rajan. Navratilova highlights fears of totalitarianism under Trump's administration, stating she would not feel welcomed today. Despite her critical view of contemporary U.S. politics, she stands by her controversial opinions on transgender women's participation in sports.

Navratilova, who left Czechoslovakia at 18, now voices concerns over immigration practices, feeling that the U.S. is becoming unwelcoming to newcomers. She reminisces about her upbringing and her sacrifices in pursuit of a tennis career that led to her iconic status. Although she thrives in her personal life today, she continues to address the complexities of identity and rights in sports, advocating for separate categories based on biological sex. Navratilova candidly discusses her health struggles with cancer, finding gratitude in life despite her battles. The tennis icon's views are influencing current debates on sports participation while she navigates her own journey of recovery.

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In recent years, Navratilova has become a prominent voice on contentious issues in sports, pushing for equal treatment while remaining firm in her stances. Her story is not just about tennis but is intertwined with discussions on nationality, identity, and resilience. As she embraces life post-cancer, her insights remain impactful both within and beyond the sports world.