**Martina Navratilova Critiques US Political Landscape: 'It Isn't a Democracy'**

**Martina Navratilova, the renowned tennis champion, voices her fears regarding the current political atmosphere in the United States, highlighting issues with immigration policies and expressing skepticism about the country's democratic values.**

Martina Navratilova, legendary tennis player and defector from communist Czechoslovakia, recently expressed profound concerns regarding the political climate in the United States during an interview with the BBC's Amol Rajan. Reflecting on her defection fifty years ago, the 18-year-old Navratilova left behind her life in Czechoslovakia, aspiring to be the world’s best tennis player in a place free from oppressive regimes. Now, she fears that returning to the U.S. would be unthinkable, saying, "I wouldn’t have left home for Trump's America."

Since President Trump assumed office in January, his administration has initiated extensive immigration raids and imposed a travel ban targeting citizens from 12 countries, which Navratilova believes has contributed to a shift toward a “totalitarian” state. Concerned about migrant rights, she stated, "The US is definitely turning against migrants," indicating a growing hostility toward those not in support of the Trump administration's agenda.

Navratilova's decision to defect in 1975 was not taken lightly, as she left an idyllic life in Revnice, Czechia, unsure if she would see her family again. Ultimately, her choice paved the way for her to become an unparalleled tennis champion, holding records in women's singles and doubles. Today, she is a dual citizen of the US and Czech Republic, but states that citizenship feels precarious in the current political landscape, with many feeling uncertain about their future.

In a controversial stance, Navratilova has expressed her agreement with Trump on the topic of transgender women in sport. She argues that trans women possess biological advantages in women's competitions and believes the rules set by the World Tennis Association regarding trans participation are flawed. This stance is contentious and has fueled a broader debate within the sporting community about fairness and inclusion.

Navratilova has also bravely battled cancer over the past 15 years, facing dual diagnoses of breast and throat cancer. She describes her treatment journey as "hell" but is grateful for her current health status, noting that cancer has taught her to appreciate life and not to sweat the small stuff.

With her insightful perspectives on pivotal issues, Navratilova continues to spark vital conversations not only in sports but also within the broader context of civil rights and societal values in America.