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Martina Navratilova gets married!
Martina Navratilova got married earlier today to her longtime partner Julia Lemigova.
‘I’m 58 years old – I got married for the first time,’ Martina told the BBC shortly after the cerenony. ‘It’s about time. Growing up as a gay woman you just don’t ever thing about that.’
Martina proposed to Julia during the US Open where she was doing commentary for Tennis Channel.
During a break, she turned to Lemigova, got on one knee, and popped the question.
Lemigova, her girlfriend since 2006, teared up and said ‘yes.’
The proposal was broadcast on the Arthur Ashe Stadium Jumbotron and also seen by television viewers.
Martina came out publicly in 1981 at a time when it was virtually unheard of for a professional athlete to do so – especially one at the height of her career.
Martina retired from singles in 1994 but played doubles on the pro tour until 2006 when she retired shortly before her 50th birthday.
She won a total of 59 grand slam titles in singles, women’s doubles and mixed doubles – the second most of any player. She holds the record for the longest winning streak (74 matches) and is tied with Billie Jean King for most Wimbledon titles (20).
Navratilova is now making her first foray into coaching.
Last week it was announced that she would join the coaching team of former Wimbledon finalist Agnieszka Radwanska.
Comments
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FAEN says:
As a long time Martina fan this warms my heart and I’m thrilled for them!
It’s also a reflection on how far we’ve come as a people, and a movement. In the 1980’s I remember Judy Nelson, Martina’s partner at the time, constantly being refered to as her ‘roommate’ even though everybody knew the truth. Thankfully those days are done. No more hiding or pretending and Martina deserves so much credit for coming out when it was unheard of, refusing to pretend. It ruined her financially as far as sponsors went but for Martina living openly and honestly was a greater reward.
Thank you Martina. Live long and prosper.