Rubetta Beaman

Written by Rubetta Beaman

Published: 03 Nov 2025

38-facts-about-ivana-trump
Source: Abcnews.com

Ivana Trump was more than just a name in the headlines. Born in Czechoslovakia, she became a notable businesswoman, fashion icon, and author. Her life intertwined with fame, fortune, and a bit of controversy. Many know her as the first wife of Donald Trump, but her story stretches far beyond that. Did you know she was a competitive skier in her youth? Or that she played a significant role in the Trump Organization? From her early days in Europe to her high-profile life in New York, Ivana's journey is filled with intriguing moments. Ready to learn more? Here are 38 fascinating facts about Ivana Trump.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Ivana Trump, a name synonymous with glamour and business acumen, has a fascinating life story. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about her early years and background.

  1. Born Ivana Marie Zelníčková on February 20, 1949, in Zlín, Czechoslovakia, she grew up in a communist country.
  2. Her father, Miloš Zelníček, was an electrical engineer, while her mother, Marie Francová, worked as a telephone operator.
  3. Ivana was a talented skier from a young age, which earned her a spot on the national junior ski team.
  4. She attended Charles University in Prague, where she studied physical education and languages.
  5. In 1971, she married Austrian skier Alfred Winklmayr to obtain an Austrian passport, allowing her to leave Czechoslovakia.

Career and Business Ventures

Ivana Trump is not just known for her high-profile marriage to Donald Trump but also for her own successful career and business ventures.

  1. After moving to Canada, she worked as a ski instructor and model in Montreal.
  2. In 1976, she met Donald Trump in New York City, and they married the following year.
  3. Ivana played a significant role in the Trump Organization, overseeing the interior design of the Grand Hyatt Hotel and Trump Tower.
  4. She was appointed Vice President of Interior Design for the Trump Organization.
  5. Ivana also managed the Plaza Hotel, where she served as president.
  6. After her divorce from Donald Trump in 1992, she launched her own lines of clothing, jewelry, and beauty products.
  7. She authored several books, including "The Best Is Yet to Come: Coping with Divorce and Enjoying Life Again."
  8. Ivana appeared in various television shows, including "The First Wives Club" and "Celebrity Big Brother."

Personal Life and Relationships

Ivana's personal life has been as colorful as her career. Here are some interesting facts about her relationships and family.

  1. Ivana and Donald Trump had three children together: Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric.
  2. She became a U.S. citizen in 1988.
  3. Ivana and Donald's divorce was highly publicized and reportedly involved a $14 million settlement.
  4. She married Italian businessman Riccardo Mazzucchelli in 1995, but they divorced in 1997.
  5. Ivana's third marriage was to Italian actor Rossano Rubicondi in 2008, but they separated in 2009.
  6. Despite their separation, Ivana and Rossano maintained an on-again, off-again relationship until his death in 2021.
  7. Ivana has nine grandchildren from her three children.

Philanthropy and Public Image

Ivana Trump has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts and has maintained a strong public image throughout her life.

  1. She has supported numerous charities, including the American Red Cross and the Police Athletic League.
  2. Ivana was a board member of the Boys' Club of New York.
  3. She received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 1997 for her humanitarian efforts.
  4. Ivana has been a vocal advocate for women's rights and empowerment.
  5. She has been featured in various magazines, including Vogue and Vanity Fair.
  6. Ivana's distinctive style and fashion sense have made her a fashion icon.
  7. She has been a guest on numerous talk shows, sharing her life experiences and business insights.

Later Years and Legacy

Even in her later years, Ivana Trump continues to make headlines and leave a lasting legacy.

  1. In 2017, she published her memoir, "Raising Trump," which details her life and experiences raising her children.
  2. Ivana has remained active in the business world, continuing to promote her various product lines.
  3. She has been a guest speaker at numerous events, sharing her insights on business and life.
  4. Ivana has maintained a close relationship with her children and grandchildren.
  5. She has been involved in various real estate ventures, including properties in Europe and the United States.
  6. Ivana has been a frequent traveler, often visiting her native Czech Republic.
  7. She has been an advocate for healthy living and fitness, often sharing her workout routines and diet tips.
  8. Ivana has been a strong supporter of her ex-husband, Donald Trump, during his political career.
  9. She has been a vocal critic of the media, often speaking out against negative portrayals of her family.
  10. Ivana has been recognized as a trailblazer for women in business, paving the way for future generations.
  11. Her life story continues to inspire many, showcasing her resilience, determination, and success.

Final Thoughts on Ivana Trump

Ivana Trump led a fascinating life filled with glamour, business acumen, and personal triumphs. From her early days in Czechoslovakia to becoming a prominent figure in New York's social scene, she made her mark in various fields. Her marriage to Donald Trump brought her into the public eye, but she carved out her own identity as a successful businesswoman and author. Ivana's story is one of resilience, ambition, and style. Whether you admire her for her fashion sense, her business ventures, or her ability to reinvent herself, there's no denying she was a force to be reckoned with. Her legacy continues to inspire many, proving that with determination and a bit of flair, you can achieve great things. Ivana Trump will always be remembered as a woman who lived life on her own terms.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.