Hyderabad, (June 09, 2024) – Indian tennis star Sania Mirza has announced her intention to perform Hajj in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant spiritual journey following her recent divorce from Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik. This announcement was made on Sunday through a tweet, highlighting her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity.

Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, takes place annually in the month of Zilhaj. It is a time when Muslims from around the globe gather to perform rituals meant to purify them from sins. This year, Hajj will commence on Friday, June 14. 

In her heartfelt announcement, Sania expressed her joy and humility: 

"I am very happy and fortunate to have this great opportunity to go on the holy Hajj. I am ready to experience this, I apologize for any offense or misbehavior. My heart is filled with gratitude to have such an opportunity (to perform Hajj) for self-purification and spiritual rejuvenation. May Allah accept all my prayers and keep me steadfast in His path."

The announcement comes nearly five months after Sania Mirza's publicized divorce from Shoaib Malik in January of this year. Sania's family revealed that the couple had been separated for several months prior to the announcement. Despite the end of her marriage, Sania has emphasized her focus on personal growth and spirituality.

Sania's message continued with a reflection on her current state of mind:

"At the moment I feel very lucky and very grateful. Please keep me in your prayers to stay on this path forever. I hope to come back with a humble heart and strong faith besides becoming a good person through this (Hajj)."

Sania Mirza and Shoaib Malik were married in 2010 in Hyderabad, followed by a Walima reception in Sialkot, Pakistan. They welcomed their son, Izhan Mirza Malik, in 2018. Earlier this year, Shoaib Malik remarried Pakistani model and actress Sana Javed, while Sania has chosen to remain single and focus on her spiritual and personal well-being.

After an illustrious tennis career, boasting six Grand Slam titles, Sania retired in February last year. Her decision to perform Hajj signifies a new chapter in her life dedicated to faith and self-improvement.

Sania Mirza's upcoming pilgrimage to Mecca for Hajj underscores her commitment to her faith and personal growth following a tumultuous period in her personal life. As she embarks on this spiritual journey, she carries the hopes and prayers of her fans and well-wishers for a fulfilling and transformative experience.