2003 Mazda MX-5 hard to start when cold. Normally cranked only couple of times now takes many more before starting.

Either you have a battery issue or your antifreeze is not good anymore. The battery should be checked a sap. If the battery checks out fine, I would check the coolant. It is recommended to check the coolant anyway.

Thank you mightymini11. I will have battery and antifreeze checked. I understand that the battery might be a concern but how does antifreeze effect starting?

It may start to freeze and would cause the engine to work harder to turn over.

Your fuel is returning to the tank when the engine is off. Then when you turn it on, it has to pump fuel for a while before it reaches the injectors. Try turning the key to the on position and siting for a full minute before engaging the starter. If this is your situation the car should then start easily. There should be a check valve somewhere on the gas line to prevent the gas from syphoning back to the tank when the car is off. Yours (and mine) is faulty.