Martina Navratilova frustrated by decision to raise US Capitol flags for Donald Trump's inauguration despite mourning period for Jimmy Carter

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has criticized House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson's announcement to raise the flags over the Capitol to full staff for Donald Trump's inauguration. Johnson's decision came amid the ongoing mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter.

The controversy began when Johnson announced that the Capitol flags would be raised to full staff for Donald Trump's upcoming presidential inauguration on January 20. The decision came despite the national mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter, who died on December 29, 2024, at 100.

Traditionally, flags are flown at half-staff for 30 days following the death of a former president as a mark of respect and mourning. However, the inauguration of a new president within this mourning period has led to a conflict in protocol.

Navratilova, a staunch critic of Trump and the Republican Party, reacted to the news on X, highlighting the political undertones of the decision, writing:

"But of course he does."

The pointed response suggests her cynicism about the political gesture, implying that she views the action as predictable from someone like Mike Johnson, given his political alignment with Trump.

The president of the United States has the authority to adjust flag protocols upon taking office. Although President Joe Biden set the mourning period for Jimmy Carter, Donald Trump could theoretically change flag protocols upon inauguration since such directives are governed by presidential proclamation rather than federal law.

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Martina Navratilova brands Donald Trump the 'swamp' after former President George W. Bush's apparent snub at Jimmy Carter's funeral

In Picture: Martina Navratilova during the 2024 Laureus World Sports Awards press conference (Image source: Getty)

Martina Navratilova delivered a blistering critique of Donald Trump after former President George W. Bush appeared to ignore the president-elect during Jimmy Carter's funeral.

On January 10, a user posted a video clip showing Bush giving a friendly tap to former President Barack Obama while seemingly overlooking Trump, who was seated beside Obama.

Watch the video here:

The brief video quickly went viral on social media, with another user commenting on the clip, referencing corrupt or self-serving individuals in politics, writing:

"Let’s you know who’s in the Swamp."

The term "drain the swamp," famously used by Trump during his 2016 presidential campaign, symbolized his promise to eliminate corruption and entrenched political interests in Washington.

In a pointed critique of Donald Trump, 18-time Grand Slam singles champion Martina Navratilova used the same metaphor he popularized against him, writing:

"Trump is the swamp, Magat."

Navratilova honored former President Jimmy Carter by posting a heartfelt tribute, highlighting his remarkable life and enduring legacy.