Tennis great Martina Navratilova recently stated in a video that, given the current climate, she wouldn’t seek asylum in the United States if she were leaving Czechoslovakia today.
This video was produced for the online platform Home of the Brave, aimed at individuals who felt wronged by the Trump administration—a stance Navratilova has openly supported.
In her remarks, she drew parallels between the current situation in the U.S. and her experiences growing up in a Communist regime.
She mentioned, “I defected from a totalitarian regime, and now I would have to be just as cautious about what I say.” She expressed deep pride in being an American but also shame regarding President Trump’s actions.
Navratilova said, “I’m really frustrated with those who submit to Trump—law firms, schools, politicians, businesses. We’re all in this together. Divided, we fail, and that’s what Trump thrives on: chaos and fear. Back in 1975, this country felt like the freest in the world; today, I wouldn’t feel comfortable living here.”
Her concerns extended to the idea that many people feel helpless and complacent. “Everyone matters. As tennis players, we fight for every point; that’s our nature. Remaining silent isn’t an option. Coming from a totalitarian regime to a country that values freedom, we have to voice our concerns. If something feels wrong, don’t hesitate. Democracy is ongoing, but we must keep protesting and stay vigilant,” she emphasized.
Interestingly, Navratilova has found common ground with Trump on the topic of transgender athletes in women’s sports. She believes that allowing transgender women to compete against biological females is unfair and has been vocal about her stance.
Last December, she expressed frustration that Republicans took the lead on this issue, stating, “Shame on all the elected Democrats who are silent about this!!! #What’s Happening to Women?”
During a rally for the Independent Women’s Forum, she mentioned facing backlash for her views. “I’ve been labeled: ‘bigot,’ ‘transphobe,’ and more, all coming from the left, which is curious since I consider myself a leftist. It’s disappointing to see some allies turning against women advocating for gender-based rights.”
