Martina Navratilova Denied Entry At Wimbledon Over Unexpected Rule

After winning a title, tennis stars automatically become members of the club. However, that doesn’t always mean the rules will bend for them, not even for a quick bite. For instance, in 2022, Roger Federer had an interesting moment. With two hours to spare, he thought to have some tea at Wimbledon with his coach Severin. The only problem? “I’ve just been travelling so I have no idea (about the membership cards.)” And that’s exactly what kept him from going in through the main entrance as the guard only replied with one statement– “But you have to be a member.”

For Federer, one of the most recognizable faces of the sport, all he could muster in panic was, “‘I’ve won this tournament eight times. Please believe me, I am a member.” Thankfully, Severin found another door where the guards and the fans recognized the two and they had their tea peacefully. While we don’t know what happened next, this did show us how rules don’t bend even for the most stellar players at times. And recently, something similar happened to the 9x singles champion Martina Navratilova.

The former player and current announcer is in the Wimbledon Village, carrying on her duties as the BBC commentator. Naturally, when there’s no matches, it’s time to explore and relax, bringing her to the West End Glitz located right around the Wimbledon Theatre in the heart of the village– The Ivy Cafe. While she would’ve liked to have a bite before bedtime at the beautifully adorned tropical vibe cafe, she wasn’t allowed inside for one reason that couldn’t be broken even though this time every member had an ID to show– Navratilova’s more-than-popular miniature Dachshund, Lulu.

Lulu, Navratilova’s one of four dogs, is often seen in the lap of the 18x Grand Slam champion whether she is working on the sets or watching a match from the benches. However, this time, she was denied entry into The Ivy Cafe. Although sad for the same, she took it to her X and posted, “Well- tried to have dinner at the Ivy at Wimbledon, but they won’t allow Lulu into the restaurant- so plan B.”

While Plan B could also have been sitting outside which she herself revealed in the comments, replying to a fan: “They had no idea. I could have sat outside but then I couldn’t eat because of all the people walking by. So sweet of you anyway:)” But seemingly, her second plan did not include the cafe. However, she did give us a glimpse of her reaction to being denied with an adjoining photo outside the cafe where she is smiling and giving a shrug; with Lulu sitting in her carry bag.

The Czech-American is a proud dog mom and has always shared her life with her pets. In fact, Lulu even has an ID of her own so she can accompany Navratilova to work who has often mentioned, “I’ll do some running with the dogs, ride a bike; if I go to gym it’s usually for cardio,” she once said. Her pets go everywhere with her and live the good life.

After her Wimbledon commentary duties in 2022, Navratilova and her wife, Julia Lemigova, took off for a getaway in France. Naturally, Lulu joined the trip. The vacation photos went viral, especially one where Navratilova is holding Lulu at the beach with the caption, “I think Lulu enjoyed our dinner:).” A fan commented on how content Lulu looked. Martina responded, “Of course she is :), gets carried when she doesn’t want to walk, goes everywhere, gets plenty of food and sleep. I mean!!!!”

Top Comment by Linda C

I think it’s ridiculous that a person would try to take a dog into the inside of any cafe, much...more

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And Navratilova’s love for animals extends beyond just her own.

Martina Navratilova reacts to viral animal cruelty video

Martina Navratilova has been an animal rights advocate since 1995, teaming up with PETA to protest cruel practices like live animal exports and university lab testing.

Most recently, the 68-year-old called out a Lexus owner online for abandoning a dog named Chico in the middle of traffic. A video showed the heartbreaking moment as the dog stood on his hind legs, begging for his owner’s attention. The person drove off, leaving him behind. A user later updated the post, saying, “Thankfully, Chico was rescued and found a forever home. You can drive a Lexus, but if you lack compassion, that’s no real status.❤️ for Chico. #AdoptDontShop.”

Navratilova didn’t hold back. She reposted the video with the words, “Find this a******, please!!!!” Later, when Chico’s rescue was confirmed, she posted again: “Well, Chico is better off obviously, in his new home!!!👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼”

Martina might be a legend on the court, but when it comes to dining out with Lulu, she’s still going to need a solid plan B, especially while juggling her BBC commentary duties at Wimbledon. For more off-court and on-court stories like this, don’t miss the latest updates on our blog.