#9: Martina Navratilova Then
Martina Navratilova dominated women’s tennis through the 1970s and 80s. She won 18 Grand Slam singles titles and a record 31 doubles titles, showing unmatched skill and athleticism. Known for her serve-and-volley style, she changed how the women’s game was played, raising the level of competition across the sport.

Beyond her titles, Navratilova became a pioneer for openly discussing her identity. She came out as gay during a time when few athletes were willing to, showing courage that went beyond the court. Her honesty and strength inspired countless fans worldwide, both inside and outside tennis.
