Melania Trump's Maiden Name
Melania Trump's maiden name is Knauss. She was born Melanija Knavs in Slovenia, then part of Yugoslavia. The name Knavs is sometimes spelled Knauss in English-language sources.
Early Life and Background
Melania Knavs grew up in Novo Mesto, Slovenia. She later moved to the United States and became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Her background in modeling and fashion design shaped her public career before her role as first lady.
Name Change and Public Record
After her marriage to Donald Trump, Melania Knavs took the surname Trump. Public records and official biographies confirm her maiden name as Knavs or Knauss. For more details, see the official White House biography.
