X: @the_news_21
The tennis world was left reeling in shock when news broke of the untimely demise of Zainab Ali Naqvi, a young tennis prodigy from Pakistan, who tragically passed away on Monday, January 12, reportedly due to a heart attack.
Reports indicate that Zainab collapsed in her home’s bathroom following a practice session ahead of an ITF tournament. Despite immediate efforts to rush her to the hospital, accompanied by her concerned grandmother, Zainab could not be revived, and she was pronounced dead upon arrival by the attending doctor.
Zainab’s tennis journey began at the tender age of 6, inspired by her father’s passion for the sport. Alongside her dedication to tennis, she also excelled academically, showcasing her multifaceted talents from a young age.
Primarily a singles player with a preference for hard courts, Zainab participated in numerous national and international junior tournaments, leaving a mark with her natural flair for the game. Among her notable achievements was clinching the ATF U-14 Super Series Tennis Championships, triumphing over India’s Varsha Das in a tightly contested final.
Representing Pakistan in various tournaments, including the ITF Pakistan Junior Tennis Championships in 2022 and the National Games in Quetta, Balochistan, in 2023, Zainab’s potential as a rising star in Pakistani tennis was undeniable.
In recognition of her contributions to the sport, the Pakistan Tennis Federation announced that the ITF J30 tournament in Islamabad would be renamed as the Zainab Ali Naqvi Memorial. The decision was met with solemn tributes from players, coaches, PTF officials, and staff, reflecting the deep impact Zainab had within the tennis community.
Zainab’s legacy as a promising talent with a bright future remains etched in the memories of those who knew her. Her agility, intelligence, and strategic prowess on the court set her apart, earning her admiration and respect from peers and opponents alike.
While her untimely departure has left a void in Pakistani tennis, Zainab’s spirit lives on through the lasting impression she made on the sport and the hearts of those who had the privilege of witnessing her talent and dedication firsthand.
