Meaning: The quote "Martina's gone with people who don't want to be out, and it drives her crazy because she'd rather be open" by Billie Jean King, a renowned athlete, reflects the struggle and frustration Martina Navratilova faced in her personal and professional life. This quote encapsulates the inner conflict experienced by individuals who are open about their identity and beliefs, yet find themselves surrounded by people who are not willing to embrace the same level of openness.

Martina Navratilova, a former Czechoslovakian and later American tennis player, is known not only for her exceptional talent on the tennis court but also for her courage in living openly as a gay woman in a time when many public figures were not open about their sexual orientation. As a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, Navratilova faced challenges and resistance from various quarters due to her openness about her identity. The quote by Billie Jean King, a fellow tennis player and LGBTQ+ advocate, sheds light on Navratilova's struggle to navigate relationships with individuals who were not comfortable being open about their own identities.

The phrase "Martina's gone with people who don't want to be out" suggests that Navratilova found herself in the company of individuals who were not comfortable or willing to openly express their true selves. This could refer to individuals who were not open about their sexual orientation, personal beliefs, or other aspects of their identity. In contrast, Navratilova is portrayed as someone who is unapologetically open about who she is, and she finds it challenging to be surrounded by individuals who do not share the same level of openness.

The phrase "it drives her crazy because she'd rather be open" conveys Navratilova's frustration and longing to be in an environment where openness and authenticity are valued and embraced. This sentiment reflects the internal conflict experienced by many individuals who strive to live authentically while navigating relationships and environments where openness may not be readily accepted or reciprocated. Navratilova's desire to be open and true to herself is palpable in this quote, highlighting the importance of authenticity and acceptance in one's personal and professional life.

This quote also speaks to the broader societal context in which individuals, particularly those who identify as LGBTQ+, often grapple with the tension between authenticity and societal expectations. Navratilova's journey as a trailblazing athlete and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights has undoubtedly influenced and inspired many individuals to embrace their true selves, even in the face of resistance or discomfort from others.

In conclusion, Billie Jean King's poignant quote about Martina Navratilova captures the struggle and longing for openness experienced by individuals who are unapologetically true to themselves in a world where not everyone is willing to do the same. Navratilova's journey as a pioneering athlete and advocate serves as a testament to the power of authenticity and the ongoing pursuit of creating environments where openness and acceptance are celebrated.