Tennis legend, Martina Navratilova, has been a vocal opposer of Saudi-backed sporting leagues. Time and again, she has used platforms like social media to voice her concerns about such sports and leagues. Take the example of LIV Golf. Navratilova has strongly criticized the Saudi-backed league and Greg Norman, the CEO of this league. Recently, she revealed disheartening news on this subject.

There is widespread speculation that tennis will go the golf and soccer way. Earlier this year, American tennis icon Billie Jean King backed the idea of WTA and ATP partnering with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Reacting to this, Navratilova issued a strong statement that invited massive criticism on social media.

Martina Navratilova defends herself

After news broke out about Billie Jean King supporting the tennis bodies to seek investment from Saudi Arabia, Navratilova couldn’t believe Billie vouching for this idea. As a result, Navratilova didn’t keep silent and gave her views on this matter.

Reacting to this, she said, “I can tell you 100% if I were still playing, I would not be going [to Saudi Arabia] for the Championships.” However, her comment wasn’t received well by the masses, as she faced widespread backlash on it.

Defending her words, the 66-year-old said, “Hard to believe I am getting crap for saying I would not go play tennis in Saudi Arabia. From all kinds of angles. WTAF???”

Like Navratilova, even her close friend, Chris Evert, joined her in criticizing this idea. Subsequently, Evert received full support from Navratilova.

DIVE DEEPER: ‘I Was Her 9PM Phone Call Everyday’- Heart-Warming Detail Comes to Light as Former Doubles Partner Narrates Emotional Moment With Tennis Legend Martina Navratilova

Evert on Saudi-backed plans for tennis

The American tennis legend came out strongly against the idea of tennis taking the route of golf and soccer by accepting investment from Saudi’s Public Investment Fund. She termed the idea as ‘sports washing’ and hoped that the WTA would stay away from it. Navratilova echoed Evert’s feelings and said, “I am heartbroken about it. It’s just wrong.”

While these are just speculations, only time will tell if tennis bodies join hands with Saudi’s Public Investment Fund. What do you think about this idea? Let us know your views in the comments below.

WATCH THIS STORY | ‘Don’t Mind Getting A Bit Dirty’ – Aussie Star Nick Kyrgios Explores The ‘Roger Federer’ Connection To Wimbledon And His Nasty Desire To Win