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Martina Navratilova’s Career Defining Impact on 8X Grand Slam Champion Ivan Lendl Unveiled in an Endearing Confession

Published 10/19/2023, 1:48 PM EDT

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The journey to success in professional tennis requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Those who have it can reach the top of their career. The same has been the case with Martina Navratilova, who won 18 grand slam titles throughout her journey as a professional tennis player. She not only inspired many players but also guided the light to glory for many. Reflecting on the same, Ivan Lendl, who is often regarded by many as the ‘Father of modern tennis‘ revealed the impact that the former American champion had on her life.

In a podcast, he reflects on how Martina and his doctor helped him change the course of his career. Taking inspiration from the champion, he revealed how she helped get some much-needed confidence that helped him change the trajectory of his career.

8-time grand slam winner reveals the role of Martina Navratilova in his success

In a recent revelation, 8-time Grand Slam champion Ivan Lendl sheds light on his journey in the mid-80s, crediting much of his success to nutritionist Dr Robert Haas. However, he also pointed out Martina Navratilova, who had already experienced the benefits under the guidance of Dr. Haas. After seeing the remarkable journey that Martina went through, Lendl thought it was best if he could work under him to bring out the best results.

Lendl revealed that it was not only the amount of hard work and dedication that was important, it was the amount of rest and proper food that the players got. Martina Navratilova highlighted the importance of proper nutrition and wellness. This journey was a turning point, leading Lendl to partner with Dr. Haas, thereby reshaping how he trained and ate.

“There was Martina, who had worked with Robert Haas before, already at that time, and she was extremely fit. And I saw how it was, how much good it was doing for her in her career. And I said, if Martina can do it, I can also do it. So I think maybe I was the first in demand standards. But certainly, Martina has been doing that extreme fitness. And in order to be fit, you have also to eat properly, rest properly, and so on and so on. So, I was trying to learn all of that. And it’s not a bad thing to copy somebody who is dominating women’s tennis,” said Lendl in the podcast.

Thus, Martina Navratilova played a crucial role in reshaping his career. A fit and fine American women’s champion guided the right direction to Lendl who then changed the shape of his career and went ahead to mark significant success in his career.

Ivan Lendl did not win any grand slams before working with Dr Hass

This might come as a surprise to many. Ivan Lendl, who changed the dynamics of the game was a pure force to be dealt with during his time as a professional player. However, despite this, he was not able to lay his hands on a grand slam title. He often cited that he became too tired and could not put in the effort.

He then decided to work with Dr. Hass who changed the course of his career. From someone with 0 grand slams, he helped him bag 8 titles to his name while etching his name into the history books in tennis. Thus, Martina Navratilova definitely went ahead to help Ivan change the trajectory of his career. As he sent shockwaves into the tennis world, the whole world watched the rise of a new champion.

Watch this story: ‘Thinking About Her Everyday’ – Despite Gruesome Schedule, Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian’s Meticulous Struggle Revealed As He Strives To Be A Doting Father

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Written by:

Akshat Gaur

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Akshat Gaur is a Tennis Writer at EssentiallySports. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in 2021 and has been writing since then. With over two years of experience in the world of sports journalism, specifically tennis journalism, Akshat is someone who is immensely passionate about covering the ATP and the WTA Tour.
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Edited by:

Aishwary Gaonkar