One of tennis’ greatest ever champions, Martina Navratilova, who turns 59 today, is the only player in history to hold the world No1 spot in singles and doubles for more than 200 weeks.

The Czech-born American was known for her incredible feel at the net and her mastery of the lowbouncing grass courts. She won Wimbledon a staggering nine times (an all-time record) and ended her career with a total of 18 grand slam singles titles and an alltime record 31 grand slam doubles crowns.

Her career longevity meant that she was ranked in the world’s top 10 in singles for a record 20 consecutive years (1975- 1994), a span which included 19 years in the top five, 15 years in the top three, and seven years as world No1.

Navratilova is one of just three women to have accomplished a Career Grand Slam in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.

1949: George Hendrick, American ex-baseball player, won the 1982 World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals (66).

1968: Narendra Hirwani, Indian leg spinner who had a stunning Test debut against Windies at the age of 19 (47).

1968: Michael Stich, retired big-serving German tennis player who won Wimbledon in 1991 (47).

1984: Lindsey Vonn, American two-time World skier champion. Won Olympic gold in downhill in Vancouver 2010 (31).