Pakistan’s Malika-e-Noor retires from int’l football

KARACHI (Monitoring Desk): Pakistan women’s football team’s seasoned striker Malika-e-Noor announced her shock retirement from the sport with immediate effect.

Noor, who rose to the limelight with his 89th-minute winner for Pakistan against Maldives in the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship in 2010 shared that she has formally retired from international football but will continue to play domestic tournaments.

“Probably the hardest decision that I have made in my life! I wasn’t mentally ready—I thought I would give some more years to the team—but the scenarios have changed, and this feels like a must-do,” Noor posted on Instagram.

Malika-e-Noor, who played 25 international football matches for Pakistan, termed it as the biggest honour of her life.

“Representing my country on the world stage has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and I am incredibly grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to wear the national team jersey,” said Noor.

Noor expressed her satisfaction over playing with “the best teammates” and “exceptional coaches” before going on to thank her friends and family for their unwavering support throughout her professional career.

“From my debut to my final match, the journey has been filled with unforgettable moments, hard-fought victories, and invaluable lessons. I have been privileged to play alongside some of the best teammates and under the guidance of exceptional coaches. Each match and every training session has shaped me not only as a player but also as a person,” said Noor.

“Thank you to my family and friends for your unwavering support and sacrifices, allowing me to pursue my dreams. To my teammates, thank you for your fellowship and for pushing me to be the best version of myself. And to the fans, your passion and encouragement have been the driving force behind every performance.

“Though I am stepping away from international play, I look forward to continuing my career at the club level and contributing to the game in new ways. I will forever cherish the memories made and the relationships built through this incredible journey.

“My thoughts and best wishes remain with the youth. I hope they find themselves in an environment where they are safe, heard, and treated with equality. Young girls are driving change within the system, and I trust that stakeholders and authorities will recognize this and support the youth in achieving their dreams.”