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Shoaib Malik reacts to Sania Mirza's final Grand Slam match. As Indian tennis star Sania Mirza announced her retirement from Grand Slam competition, her husband, Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik, sent an emotional message for her.
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The 36-year-old athlete, who won her maiden Grand Slam 18 years ago, competed in the final Australian Open tournament of her career earlier today.
The cricketer described Mirza as "hope for all women in sports," and said he was pleased of what she has accomplished in her lengthy career.
The Pakistan cricketer remarked on Instagram: "You are the much-needed hope for all the women in sports. Super proud of you for all you have achieved in your career. You're an inspiration for many, keep going strong. Many congratulations on an unbelievable career..."
Mirza gave a tearful parting statement at the Australian Open earlier today. "I just want to start with that if I cry, these are happy tears and not sad tears so that’s just a disclaimer," the tennis star added, struggling to keep her emotions in check.
Sania also stated that, while she will compete in a few more events, she has withdrawn from professional tennis and thanked everyone for their support. “Thank you so much for all the support all week guys and all my life, really. It’s been truly, truly special and I wouldn't have achieved anything without each and every single one of you.
“ Thank you very much for everything and thank you, Australia for making me feel at home.”
Mirza won six Grand Slam doubles championships between 2009 and 2016, three in women's doubles and three in mixed doubles. In 2015, she was ranked No. 1 in the world in women's doubles.
The Australian Open Twitter account also praised Sania for her devotion and accomplishment, writing, "A trailblazer for women in sport. Thank you Sania."
A trailblazer for women in sport 🇮🇳🎾
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 27, 2023
Thank you, Sania ❤️@MirzaSania • #AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/hVArmoOhmV
Mirza won six Grand Slam doubles championships between 2009 and 2016, three in women's doubles and three in mixed doubles. In 2015, she was ranked No. 1 in the world in women's doubles.
