Tennis legends Chris Evert and Monica Seles shared heartfelt reactions after Martina Navratilova posted about receiving one of the Czech Republic’s most prestigious awards. The 18-time Grand Slam champion shared an Instagram reel from the ceremony in Prague, drawing emotional responses from her fellow tennis greats.
Martina Navratilova’s Journey and National Recognition
Navratilova’s connection to her birth country carries a complicated history. Born in Prague on October 18, 1956, she grew up under communist rule, where authorities closely monitored her tennis career. At 18 years old in 1975, she defected to the United States during the US Open after authorities threatened to block her professional opportunities abroad because they felt she was adopting Western influences. The defection cost her Czech citizenship and separated her from her family for years.
Navratilova became a US citizen in 1981, but the story came full circle in 2008 when she regained Czech citizenship as a dual citizen. On October 28, 2025, President Petr Pavel presented her with the Order of the White Lion, III Class during the annual Independence Day ceremony at Prague Castle. The event honored 48 individuals that evening, including Czech actor Zdeněk Svěrák and others recognized for exceptional contributions.
When Navratilova posted video footage from the ceremony on Instagram, former competitors and longtime friends responded with genuine emotion. Monica Seles, the nine-time Grand Slam champion, wrote, “You made me cry, and thank you for sharing this with all of us,” with a heart emoji.
Chris Evert, who faced Navratilova 80 times during their legendary rivalry, commented, “That looks so cool, Martina, Congratulations” with heart, clapping, and thumbs-up emojis.
The warm messages highlighted the deep bonds formed between these champions over decades of competition and friendship.
MORE: Chris Evert Sends Martina Navratilova a ‘Deserving’ Message on Her Birthday
The Prestigious Honor Awarded to Navratilova
The Order of the White Lion stands as the Czech Republic’s highest state decoration. Established in 1922, this honor celebrates outstanding contributions to the nation’s welfare and international standing. Both Czech citizens and foreign nationals can receive the award for exceptional achievements in politics, culture, science, sports, and education.
The order comes in five classes, with First Class representing the highest grade typically reserved for heads of state. Navratilova received the Third Class designation, worn as an order around the neck during official occasions. Czech law specifies that the President presents these honors on particular dates throughout the year, with October 28 holding special significance as the anniversary of Czechoslovak independence in 1918.
President Pavel honored Navratilova specifically for her tennis accomplishments and her role in elevating the Czech Republic’s profile in international sports. With 59 Grand Slam titles spanning singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, including nine Wimbledon singles championships, Navratilova’s legacy remains unmatched.
Her journey from a teenager escaping communist restrictions to becoming a global sports icon, and now receiving her homeland’s highest recognition, reflects both personal resilience and the democratic transformation of the Czech Republic.
