An uncomfortable exchange unfolded on BBC’s Wimbledon coverage when Clare Balding asked Martina Navratilova to remain on screen between the women’s semi-finals.
The nine-time Wimbledon champion had been providing commentary for Amanda Anisimova’s victory over Aryna Sabalenka before joining Balding courtside.
When Balding suggested Navratilova stay to preview the second semi-final between Iga Swiatek and Belinda Bencic, saying “Martina, if you don’t mind staying with me, we’ll build up to the second,” the tennis legend interrupted with a curt “If I must.”
The response created a palpable tension during the live broadcast.
Balding responded with nervous laughter before questioning: “If you must?”
Navratilova, displaying a wry smile whilst maintaining her slightly reluctant demeanour, repeated: “If I must.”
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The exchange occurred whilst Tracy Austin and Anne Keothavong were also present for the BBC’s coverage.
Despite the uncomfortable moment, the broadcast continued with analysis of Anisimova’s achievement in reaching her first Grand Slam final.
The second semi-final faced an extended delay when a medical emergency in the crowd required attention, marking the third such incident of the day at the All England Club.
During the delay, Navratilova observed that such stoppages were occurring with greater frequency than during her playing days.
“It seems to happen a lot more often these days,” she claimed.
“I think I remember like twice, ever, in my career that we had to stop for a medical situation on the court.”
The former world number one then addressed climate change sceptics, adding: “But there’s no global warming you know, according to many people.
“Try sitting on the grass and see how you feel today.”
Her comments came as temperatures soared at SW19, with multiple medical incidents interrupting play throughout the afternoon.
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The awkward broadcast exchange wasn’t Navratilova’s only uncomfortable encounter this week.
The tennis champion revealed she was refused entry to The Ivy restaurant near Wimbledon whilst accompanied by her dog.
Posting a selfie outside the establishment with her pet Lulu, Navratilova shared: “Well – tried to have dinner at The Ivy at Wimbledon, but they won’t allow Lulu into the restaurant – so plan B.”
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