TL;DR
- Wimbledon has a rich LGBTQ+ history.
- Billie Jean King is a legendary advocate.
- Daria Kasatkina and Greet Minnen made headlines.
- Martina Navratilova has won nine titles.
- Newcomer Mika Brunold is breaking barriers.
As the 2026 Wimbledon Championship gears up to serve, let’s take a moment to celebrate the fabulous LGBTQ+ players who have graced the iconic courts of this prestigious tournament. From trailblazers to rising stars, these athletes have not only showcased their skills but have also championed equality and representation in sports.
First up, we have the legendary Billie Jean King, a name synonymous with tennis and activism. With a staggering 20 career titles at Wimbledon—six in singles, ten in women’s doubles, and four in mixed doubles—King is a force to be reckoned with. After being outed in 1981 due to a palimony lawsuit, she didn’t just retreat into the shadows; instead, she became a fearless advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. King has been vocal about the importance of supporting trans athletes and has called out discriminatory laws like Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ legislation.
Fast forward to 2022, when Daria Kasatkina came out as a lesbian, making waves in the tennis world. Ranked eighth in the WTA, she’s the highest-ranked openly gay player on tour. Kasatkina’s journey has taken her from Russia to Australia, and she’s not afraid to share her love life with the world, recently getting engaged to figure skater Natalia Zabiiako. Talk about a power couple!
Then there’s the Belgian duo Greet Minnen and Alison Van Uytvanck, who made history in 2019 as the first same-sex couple to compete in a doubles match at Wimbledon. Their love story blossomed on the court, and they became social media sensations after sharing a kiss following a match. Although their romantic relationship has since ended, their impact on LGBTQ+ representation in sports remains strong.
Let’s not forget about the iconic Martina Navratilova, who has dominated the Wimbledon courts with nine singles titles—an all-time record. Coming out as bisexual in 1981, Navratilova has been a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, although her controversial views on trans women in sports have sparked debates. Regardless, her legacy in tennis is undeniable.
Newcomer Mika Brunold is also making headlines as the second male tennis player to come out while actively competing. With a career-high ATP ranking of 289, Brunold is not just serving aces but also breaking barriers for LGBTQ+ representation in men’s tennis. His Instagram post announcing his sexuality was a bold move, highlighting the importance of visibility in sports.
Argentine tennis star Nadia Podoroska is another name to watch. Coming out publicly in 2022, she has made her mark at Wimbledon and beyond, often sharing sweet moments with her partner, fellow tennis player Guillermina Naya. Their love is as fierce as their game, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this dynamic duo.
As Wimbledon prepares for its 139th edition, let’s celebrate the LGBTQ+ athletes who have not only served on the court but have also served as beacons of hope and change in the world of sports. Their stories remind us that love, pride, and perseverance are always in season, especially on the green grass of Wimbledon.