“Combination of intimidation and pure lunacy”: Martina Navratilova accuses Donald Trump of silencing media with $15 billion lawsuit

Martina Navratilova hit out at Donald Trump after he filed a $15 billion lawsuit. On Monday, September 16, 2025, Trump sued The New York Times in a Florida court. He also named four reporters and Penguin Random House in the case.

The President says the paper defamed him and interfered in the 2024 election. The 79-year-old tennis legend called it “a combination of intimidation and pure lunacy.”

Martina Navratilova reacts to Donald Trump’s lawsuit

Martina Navratilova reacted on X on September 16. She wrote: “This is a combination of intimidation and pure lunacy.” She suggested Trump wants to scare the media with this move.The lawsuit claims The New York Times published false reports about Trump’s business and wealth.

It also objects to the paper endorsing Kamala Harris before the 2024 election. The reporters named in the suit are Susanne Craig, Russ Buettner, Peter Baker, and Michael S. Schmidt.

Donald Trump also targeted Penguin Random House. The publisher released Lucky Loser: How Donald Trump Squandered His Father’s Fortune and Created the Illusion of Success. He says the book defamed him and damaged his image.

Donald Trump’s case raises free press concerns

Donald Trump filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Florida on September 16, 2025.

He says the coverage hurt his reputation, damaged his company, and influenced the election. Trump has served as both the 45th and 47th President of the United States.The New York Times called the lawsuit “meritless.” The paper says it will continue to defend its reporting. Free press groups also raised concerns. They say lawsuits like this can silence reporters and intimidate news outlets.Also Read: Sofia Vergara’s Awkward Hug With Canelo Alvarez Goes Viral As His Wife Steps In During Las Vegas Fight NightMartina Navratilova’s words added to the debate. By calling the case “intimidation,” she pointed at the risk to press freedom. Her reaction showed how sports and politics often cross paths in America’s biggest debates.