“I am so sad”: Martina Navratilova mourns Duchess of Kent Katharine and recalls emotional Wimbledon bond that changed her life

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova shared a moving message after the death of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, who passed away at the age of 92 on the night of September 4, 2025, at Kensington Palace in London.

The Duchess had long been connected to the sport of tennis and was a familiar face at Wimbledon Championships, where she handed trophies to champions for many years.

Martina Navratilova remembers Duchess of Kent Katharine after her passing in London

Martina Navratilova, an 18-time Grand Slam winner, revealed her deep personal bond with the Duchess. In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote:“I am so sad for the passing of her Royal Highness, the Duchess of Kent though I had the privilege of calling Katherine. What she did for me personally was an amazing thing. RIP and thank you so very much for all the good you have done.”

Her words showed the gratitude she felt for the Duchess, who played a role not only in British tennis traditions but also in Navratilova’s personal life.

Martina Navratilova recalls help from Duchess of Kent during Wimbledon years

Martina Navratilova explained that her relationship with the Duchess of Kent went beyond Wimbledon ceremonies. Back in 1979, during a difficult political situation in Czechoslovakia, Martina Navratilova feared she might never see her mother while playing abroad.

The Duchess personally arranged for a visa, making it possible for Navratilova’s mother to travel to London and watch her compete at Wimbledon.That act of kindness stayed with the tennis star for life. The Duchess not only gave trophies to Navratilova during her victories, such as in 1978, but also offered support at a very human level when the player needed it most.Also Read: Elon Musk And Conor McGregor Form Unlikely Alliance Shaking Up Ireland’s Presidential RaceNavratilova described this as “an amazing thing” and said she would always be thankful for it.

The bond between the two women was both public and private, seen on the court and felt in Navratilova’s personal journey.Even after retirement, Martina Navratilova often spoke warmly about her connection with the Duchess. With her passing, the tennis world not only mourns a royal supporter of the sport but also a woman who quietly helped athletes behind the scenes.As the 2025 US Open continues, Martina Navratilova has also been sharing her views on the players, picking Jannik Sinner as her favorite to win the men’s title. But this week, her focus shifted from tennis predictions to remembering a woman who shaped one of the most memorable parts of her career and life.