Martina Navratilova and Julia Lemigova Mourn Dog
Tennis legend Martina Navratilova and her wife Julia Lemigova announce the loss of their beloved family dog, Abby.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Tennis
Tennis icon Martina Navratilova and partner Julia Lemigova have shared the passing of their dog, Abby. The couple, who live on a farm in Miami, announced the news through a social media tribute.
Why it matters
The announcement highlights the personal life of the renowned athlete, who spent decades in the international spotlight as a professional tennis star. The couple maintains an active farm life in Miami featuring various animals including dogs, cows, and goats.
Martina Navratilova concluded a historic career on the WTA Tour, where she competed from 1974 to 2006 and secured 59 Grand Slam titles. The tennis legend recently celebrated her 70th birthday.
The players
Martina Navratilova
A legendary professional tennis player who holds 59 Grand Slam titles and dominated the WTA Tour for over three decades.
Julia Lemigova
A reality television personality and model who is married to Martina Navratilova and manages their shared farm in Miami.
The details
Julia Lemigova shared the update on Instagram, featuring a video of the dog to commemorate the animal. The dog reportedly spent time with the couple at their Miami farm and in the Miami Beach area.
Timeline
Martina Navratilova competed on the WTA Tour between 1974 and 2006.
Julia Lemigova announced the death of the dog on October 23, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This transition marks a domestic focus for the tennis icon two decades after her retirement following the 2006 WTA Tour season. It contrasts with the high-stakes competitive environment that defined her career before her departure from professional play.
The announcement underscores the transition of high-profile athletes toward private, farm-based lifestyles following their retirement from active sports competition. Readers interested in the personal lives of historical figures can note this shift in focus from Grand Slam circuits to animal husbandry.
The takeaway
The passing of a family pet serves as a reminder of the quiet lives retired public figures lead after decades of international travel and intense competition. Many find solace in the daily routines of animal care and agricultural management once their professional athletic careers conclude.
Further reading
Find more updates on professional athletes and their lives off the court in the Tennis section.
