Two Martinas meet at last

Navratilova and Sanchez-Vicario succumbed to youth

Martina Navratilova realised a long-held ambition when she faced namesake and world number one Martina Hingis on Thursday.

Navratilova and doubles partner Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario played Hingis and Anna Kournikova in the first round of the Filderstadt Grand Prix on Wednesday, losing 6-3 6-4.

The defeat failed to dim Navratilova's delight at finally exchanging shots with Hingis, who was named after the 44-year-old former champion.

Hingis and Navratilova brushed past their experienced counterparts

"It was a great feeling. I have wanted to play against Martina for such a long time now, ever since she played her first tournament in 1994," said Navratilova, who won six titles at Filderstadt between 1982-92.

"She has terrific hands, and it was such a thrill to be out there on the same court as her.

"When I look back now, one of the things I am most proud of in my career is the fact I have played against all the great players in the last 30 years or so.

"Names like (Margaret) Court, (Billie Jean) King, (Chris) Evert, (Evonne) Goolagong, (Steffi) Graf, (Monica) Seles, the Williams sisters and now Hingis.

"It gives me chills when I think about it."

Navratilova won 18 Grand Slam titles in a glittering 21-year career, while 21-year-old Hingis has five majors to her name.