Fresh off her Sky Sports commentary at Indian Wells, tennis icon Martina Navratilova is back in South Florida, balancing her roles as a tennis analyst and a mother. With a record of 167 singles and 177 doubles titles, Navratilova now focuses on dissecting the game and raising her family.
The Miami Open is a special event for her, allowing her to combine both passions. She and her wife Julia Lemigova, who adopted two young boys last year, are excited for the tournament.
“It`s my local tournament,” Navratilova shared with wtatennis.com. “I`ll drop the kids at school and head to work – early shift at the Tennis Channel. Talk about an easy commute! Julia will handle school pick-up.”
Navratilova, an 18-time Grand Slam singles champion and cancer survivor, remains energetic at 68. She reflected on Indian Wells and previewed the Miami Open, the season’s fourth WTA 1000 event, which starts main draw action on Tuesday.
Five Key Questions for the Top 5 Players
1. How will World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka recover from her recent losses?
Navratilova: Sabalenka needs to reset her approach to defensive pressure, like what Andreeva applied. She should focus on constructing points rather than overpowering opponents, as she`s been making too many errors. It’s about rediscovering the patience that propelled her to the No. 1 ranking initially.
2. Iga Swiatek hasn`t won a title since Roland Garros and has shown frustration this year. Should we be worried?
Navratilova: Swiatek has displayed frustration, some directed at her team. While the specifics are unclear, managing her emotions is crucial, as she can become visibly agitated. Confidence seems to be a factor, leading to frustration when things don`t go smoothly. Her ability is still evident, but maintaining a positive mindset will be key. However, it`s important to remember her consistent success over the past few years and her past victory at this Miami event.
3. Coco Gauff turned 21 recently and has been a top player for six years. How do you assess her game?
Navratilova: I’m confident Gauff will regain her form. She faces intense scrutiny everywhere. Technically, her serve has improved more than results indicate, but her forehand remains a work in progress. While others use a similar grip, hers is quite extreme. Analyzing Swiatek’s forehand could offer insights – minor adjustments could significantly improve Gauff’s consistency and help her counter opponents targeting her forehand.
4. How does Jessica Pegula’s early loss to Svitolina at Indian Wells affect her confidence and form?
Navratilova: Losing early in a major tournament is never ideal, but Svitolina is a formidable opponent who makes matches physically demanding. It`s not necessarily a setback, but a reminder for Pegula to elevate her game against top competitors. Miami`s conditions are more favorable for her style, offering a good opportunity to regroup and aim for a strong performance.
5. Which version of Madison Keys will define her season? The Grand Slam contender from Australia or the player still adapting to the pressures?
Navratilova: Her Australian Open performance was a major positive. However, in Indian Wells, she faced an exceptionally strong Sabalenka in difficult conditions. Those matches in tough conditions should be put aside. When things go wrong, they can quickly unravel. Keys has big, looping swings, while Sabalenka’s swing is more compact and efficient in those conditions. Keys needs to overcome any lingering negativity, as that doesn’t reflect her true potential.
Key Takeaways from Andreeva’s Indian Wells Victory
What are your thoughts on the Indian Wells final?
Navratilova: It was an amazing match, full of momentum shifts and considering Mirra Andreeva`s previous 0-for-18 break point record against Sabalenka this year. Despite the break point struggles, she regained her composure, which was remarkable. Perhaps her youth at 17 is an advantage, lacking any past negative experiences in such situations. Coach Conchita Martinez`s guidance from the box surely helped, but ultimately, maintaining composure under pressure is crucial.
Does Andreeva remind you of any past 17-year-old players?
Navratilova: Mirra is a well-rounded player. I see similarities with Carlos Alcaraz. While she may not have the raw power of some, she hits the ball exceptionally well, especially down the lines, and defends effectively. This defensive prowess turning into offense is reminiscent of Alcaraz. She had Sabalenka questioning how to win points, much like opponents feel against Alcaraz.
And at just 17, her playing style is reminiscent of Justine Henin. She utilizes slice shots effectively and excels down the line on both wings. Henin was known for attacking the down-the-line return. While both are agile, Mirra possesses a bigger serve and overall game. And her drop shots are effective. The slice was particularly damaging against Sabalenka. While men have utilized the slice for a while, women are increasingly recognizing its effectiveness.
Can Andreeva continue her success and win in Miami, making it three consecutive WTA 1000 titles?
Navratilova: Why not? It`s a significant challenge, but physically she`s clearly fit. However, managing the fatigue of so many consecutive matches will be key. It`s a new experience for her. After Miami, she can rest before the European clay court season. It`s achievable. I was surprised she defeated Sabalenka in Indian Wells; I considered it possible, but unlikely. Yet, she found a way.
Final Reflections
How will the Indian Wells standouts carry their momentum into Miami?
Navratilova: Miami presents a new challenge with faster courts and different conditions, especially with the quick turnaround. For Sabalenka, it`s another rapid adjustment after a tough loss, similar to post-Australian Open. How players adapt physically, emotionally, and tactically will be a key narrative. Expect Swiatek and Gauff to be strong contenders as they adjust to the faster pace. This period is demanding for all players, with two consecutive WTA 1000 events in different locations. It`s rare for players to win both Indian Wells and Miami due to the strain. Ultimately, the title will likely go to the freshest and most comfortable player on these courts.
