’How They Are ’Manly”- Former Arsenal Star Blasts Martina Navratilova for Disparaging Venus and Serena Williams When They Were Young

Venus and Serena Williams have carried the legacy of women’s tennis in the 21st century. The two players came as underdogs and then very swiftly dominated women’s tennis for more than two decades. Ian Wright, a former England and Arsenal FC soccer player, expressed his discontent when tennis legend Martina Navratilova gave her views on the Williams sisters.

Moreover, he showed admiration for the struggle the two sisters had to go through to build their astounding careers.

Ian Wright was disappointed by Martina Navratilova’s view on Venus and Serena Williams

The former Arsenal soccer player expressed his disappointment towards Martina Navratilova’s take on the Williams sisters. When the sisters were the rising stars and were on their way to reign over the tennis world, Navratilova commented on the Williams sisters’ bodies. Wright talking about this in his podcast said, “One of the most disappointing things I heard was listening to Navratilova – who I really adored when I was young.”

Her point of view of the sisters caught him off-guard, “My mum loved tennis- listening to how Martina Navratilova lambasting Serena and Venus about their shapes, their bodies, and how they are ‘manly’.”

READ MORE: ‘When She Got Angry…’ – Hitting Partner Reveals the One Thing That Scares Venus and Serena Williams’ Father the Most

The people constantly criticized the players for their body or how they looked. However, that didn’t stop them from stepping on the court and letting their racquets do the talking.

From dominating the public courts of Compton to being the best in the world

Wright also talked about the anticipation of Williams’ debut. By the time Serena Williams had stepped onto the court, Venus Williams had already made a name for herself. He said, “Venus was the one that blasted through, you can’t forget it.” The aura was powerful around the elder sister and tennis enthusiasts were excited for more. “Beads in her hair, she blasted through, and then we heard that she’s got a sister as well who’s coming,” said Wright. The sisters exceeded the expectations of every single fan.

Coming to Navratilova, she acknowledged the potential in the younger Williams sister despite her criticism. She adored Serena and believed in her capabilities. Serena Williams went on to realize her potential and retired with an astounding 23 grand slam titles to her name.

WATCH THIS STORY: Martina Navratilova firmly believed in a young Serena Williams surpassing her records