Sports

Aisha Ijlal is rewriting Pakistan’s sports narrative. Most recently, she stunned the scene by dropping 24 points in just two quarters against male players in a mixed-gender game  a performance that’s gone viral and forced everyone to take notice. Dubbed a “star female hooper” by international media, she is truly cooking on the court, surpassing gendered expectations and redefining what it means to be a female athlete in Pakistan.

It wasn’t just the scoreline that impressed people, but the confidence, skill, and fearlessness she showed while playing against seasoned male competitors. In a country where women often have to fight twice as hard for half the recognition, Aisha’s achievement stands out as a major milestone.

A Journey Built on Grit

Basketball wasn’t the easiest path for Aisha. From the beginning, she faced resistance both subtle and direct. Growing up in an environment where girls are often pushed towards more “acceptable” activities, choosing basketball was a bold move. But she stayed committed, putting in countless hours of practice on local courts, often surrounded by boys who underestimated her.

With every training session, Aisha sharpened her skills. Eventually, she started competing against male teams, pushing herself to match their physicality, speed, and strategy. That hard work paid off when she delivered her now-famous 24-point performance, proving she could compete with anyone on the court.

Recognition Doesn’t Come Easy

Even after such standout performances, the recognition hasn’t always followed. There’s still hesitation in fully accepting women in male-dominated sports in Pakistan. Aisha has often had to deal with people questioning her capabilities, or treating her achievements as exceptions rather than proof of what women can accomplish in the sport.

But she hasn’t allowed any of that to slow her down. Instead, the criticism fuels her drive. She continues to train, compete, and aim higher, with hopes that one day, women’s basketball in Pakistan will get the respect and support it truly deserves.

Part of a Growing Movement

Aisha’s story is part of a larger wave of women in the region breaking into spaces that were once considered off-limits. Similar to how Fatima Reyadh became the first woman to coach a men’s basketball team in Bahrain a bold move that drew international attention Aisha is challenging norms right here in Pakistan. Just like Fatima faced doubts early on but proved herself through hard work and dedication, Aisha is showing that talent and leadership in sports have nothing to do with gender.

Both women, in their own countries, are paving the way for more female athletes and coaches to step forward, proving that basketball like all sports belongs to anyone willing to put in the work.

Beyond Basketball: A Voice That Captivates

Aisha’s talent isn’t limited to the basketball court. Off the court, she’s winning hearts as a singer. Through her TikTok and Instagram accounts, she regularly posts covers of popular desi songs, including heartfelt renditions of Pal Pal, Tere Pyaar Mein, and O Yaara. Her voice carries a soft, emotional depth that has earned her a growing fanbase separate from her sports following.

For her, singing isn’t just a hobby it’s another way to express herself. Whether she’s nailing a tricky basketball play or delivering a soulful song, Aisha approaches both with the same passion and dedication.

An Inspiration for the Next Generation

Stories like Aisha’s are rare in Pakistan, but they’re becoming more important than ever. Like the trailblazing female footballers and cricketers who came before her, Aisha is proving that women can excel in arenas where they’ve long been sidelined. Her journey isn’t just about personal success it’s about opening doors for the young girls watching her, who may one day follow in her footsteps.

The challenges have been plenty. From lack of institutional support to outdated mindsets, the obstacles are real. But with each victory, Aisha chips away at those barriers, making room for others to dream a little bigger.

A Bright Future Ahead

Aisha continues to train with her sights set on even bigger stages. She dreams of playing professionally, representing Pakistan at international levels, and one day helping to build stronger platforms for women’s basketball back home. At the same time, her musical journey adds another dimension to her growing influence.

Her story is one of passion, persistence, and breaking stereotypes. In both sports and music, Aisha Ijlal is proving that women in Pakistan don’t have to stay in the boxes society tries to place them in. They can do it all and do it brilliantly.

• Historic Victory: Aliya Soomro secured a knockout win in Bangkok, marking a significant achievement in her boxing career.

• Overcoming Challenges: Despite societal resistance and financial constraints, Aliya pursued her passion for boxing with unwavering determination.

• Inspiring Change: Aliya’s success story has inspired young girls across Pakistan to challenge traditional gender roles and pursue their dreams in sports.

Boxing in Pakistan has traditionally been a male-dominated sport, with limited opportunities for women. However, in recent years, there has been a gradual shift, with female athletes breaking stereotypes and making their mark. One such trailblazer is Aliya Soomro, a young boxer from Karachi’s Lyari area, who has defied societal norms to pursue her passion for boxing.

Aliya Soomro: A Historic Victory

Aliya Soomro made history by winning an international boxing match in Bangkok, Thailand. Competing under the TL Boxing Promotion at the World Siam Stadium, Aliya faced Thai boxer Suthida Ganyanovich in a 10-round professional bout. Displaying exceptional skill and determination, Aliya secured a victory by knocking out her opponent in the fourth round, marking a significant achievement in her boxing career.

Overcoming Challenges

Aliya’s journey to success has been fraught with challenges. Growing up in the economically disadvantaged and conservative neighborhood of Lyari, she faced societal resistance to women participating in sports. Despite these obstacles, Aliya’s passion for boxing remained unwavering. With the support of her coach, Younis Qambrani, and her family, she trained rigorously, often using makeshift equipment due to financial constraints.

Inspiring the Nation

Aliya Soomro’s victory has not only brought pride to her community but has also inspired countless young girls across Pakistan to pursue their dreams, irrespective of societal barriers. Her success story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience, encouraging more women to engage in sports and challenge traditional gender roles.

Looking Ahead

Following her recent triumph, Aliya is set to face an Indian boxer in an upcoming bout scheduled for August. With her confidence and determination, Aliya aims to continue making her country proud on the international boxing stage.

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• Pakistani runners Faisal Shafi and Danish Elahi completed the Boston Marathon wearing traditional shalwar kameez, likely setting a unique world record.
• Their participation beautifully blended cultural heritage with athletic achievement, showcasing their identity and national pride on a global stage.
• Their inspiring feat transcends the race itself, serving as a powerful message of courage, cultural pride, and the unifying power of sports.

The roar of the crowd, the pounding of feet on the pavement, the sheer test of human endurance – the Boston Marathon is legendary. But this year, history wasn’t just made by finishing times; it was woven into the very fabric of the race. Two remarkable Pakistani runners, Faisal Shafi and Danish Elahi, etched their names into the annals of the world’s oldest marathon by completing the grueling 26.2 miles in their traditional shalwar kameez, setting what is believed to be a unique world record.

A Fusion of Culture and Athleticism

Imagine the scene: amidst a sea of high-tech athletic wear, Faisal and Danish stood out, their flowing shalwar kameez embodying a rich cultural heritage. This wasn’t just a fashion statement; it was a powerful declaration of identity and a testament to their spirit. As they navigated the challenging course, they carried not only their personal aspirations but also the pride of a nation.

Their decision to run in traditional attire adds a vibrant new chapter to the Boston Marathon’s storied history. It beautifully showcases how cultural expression can seamlessly blend with athletic prowess. It’s a reminder that dedication and strength come in many forms and can be celebrated in diverse ways.

More Than Just a Race

While the exact timing of their finish and the confirmation of a “world record” for this specific feat are being celebrated, the true victory lies in their inspiring journey. Completing a marathon is a monumental achievement in itself, demanding months of rigorous training, unwavering discipline, and immense mental fortitude. To do so while embracing their cultural attire elevates their accomplishment to an extraordinary level.

Their participation has undoubtedly captured the hearts of many, both in Pakistan and across the globe. It’s a story of courage, cultural pride, and the unifying power of sports. Faisal and Danish have not only run a race; they have created a moment that transcends the finish line, leaving an indelible mark on the Boston Marathon and inspiring future generations.

A Global Inspiration

The achievement of Faisal Shafi and Danish Elahi serves as a powerful reminder that boundaries – be they geographical, cultural, or perceived limitations – can be broken. Their story is a beacon of inspiration, encouraging individuals to embrace their heritage while pursuing their passions. They have shown the world that tradition and athleticism can not only coexist but can create a truly remarkable and record-worthy achievement.

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• Three Pakistani sisters—Mahrukh, Sehrish, and Mahnoor Ali—have advanced to the semi-finals of the Australian Junior Squash Open 2025, showcasing exceptional talent.
• Their achievements highlight the rising prominence of Pakistani female athletes in international squash.
• The trio’s success is a testament to their dedication and the growing support for women’s sports in Pakistan.

A Family Affair: The Ali Sisters’ Ascent​

In a remarkable display of talent and determination, the Ali sisters from Pakistan have made significant strides at the Australian Junior Squash Open 2025. Mahrukh Ali, competing in the Under-17 category, secured her place in the semi-finals with a commanding performance against Australia’s Meghan Wang. Her younger sisters, Sehrish and Mahnoor, have also advanced in their respective categories, continuing the family’s impressive legacy in the sport.​

Mahrukh Ali: Leading the Charge​

Mahrukh’s journey to the semi-finals has been marked by skill and resilience. Her victory over a strong Australian opponent underscores her position as a formidable contender in the Under-17 division. Mahrukh’s performance not only reflects her personal dedication but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring female athletes in Pakistan.​

Sehrish and Mahnoor: Rising Stars​

Following in their elder sister’s footsteps, Sehrish and Mahnoor have demonstrated exceptional prowess on the court. Sehrish’s advancement in the Under-15 category and Mahnoor’s success in the Under-13 division highlight the depth of talent within the Ali family. Their achievements at such young ages signal a promising future for Pakistani women’s squash.​

Empowering Women Through Sport​

The Ali sisters’ accomplishments extend beyond personal triumphs; they represent a broader movement toward empowering women in sports within Pakistan. Their success challenges traditional norms and encourages greater participation of women in athletics. As role models, the sisters are paving the way for the next generation of female athletes.​

Looking Ahead: The Semi-Finals​

As the Australian Junior Squash Open progresses, all eyes will be on the Ali sisters as they compete in the semi-finals scheduled for April 17, 2025. Their continued success has the potential to elevate Pakistan’s status in international squash and inspire a new era of female athletic achievement in the country.​

The Ali sisters’ journey at the Australian Junior Squash Open 2025 is more than a series of matches; it’s a narrative of perseverance, talent, and the breaking of barriers. Their story resonates with aspiring athletes and underscores the transformative power of sports in society.​

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Padel’s popularity in Pakistan, especially Karachi, has surged, with venues like Legends Arena leading the way.

• The sport offers extensive health benefits, including improved cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, weight management, flexibility, and mental well-being.
• Karachi boasts numerous padel venues, providing ample opportunities for enthusiasts to engage with and enjoy the sport.

Padel, a dynamic fusion of tennis and squash, has rapidly gained traction in Pakistan, particularly in Karachi. This surge in popularity is attributed to the sport’s engaging nature and its numerous health benefits. As more enthusiasts embrace padel, several venues have emerged across the city to cater to this growing demand.​

The Rise of Padel in Pakistan

In recent years, padel has transformed from a niche pastime to a mainstream sport in Pakistan. The establishment of facilities like Legends Arena in Karachi’s Defence locality exemplifies this trend. Once an underutilized hockey ground, Legends Arena now attracts an average of 750 visitors on weekdays, with numbers exceeding 1,000 on weekends. This surge underscores the sport’s burgeoning appeal among Karachi’s residents.

Health and Fitness Benefits of Padel

Beyond its entertainment value, padel offers a plethora of health advantages:

• Cardiovascular Health: The sport’s continuous movement elevates heart rate, enhancing cardiovascular fitness and reducing heart disease risk.

• Muscle Strength and Endurance: Engaging multiple muscle groups through actions like running and swinging, padel improves overall strength and stamina. ​

• Weight Management: An hour of play can burn up to 600 calories, aiding in effective weight control. ​

• Flexibility and Agility: Quick directional changes and rapid reflexes enhance flexibility, agility, and coordination.

• Mental Well-being: The strategic nature of padel stimulates cognitive functions, while social interactions during the game alleviate stress and boost mood. ​

Top Padel Venues in Karachi

For those eager to experience padel, Karachi offers several premier venues:

1. Legends Arena: Located in Defence, this multisport facility boasts multiple padel courts and has been instrumental in popularizing the sport locally. ​

2. Smash X: A modern sports complex known for its state-of-the-art padel courts and training programs.​

3. Viva Padel: Offers well-maintained courts and hosts regular tournaments, fostering a vibrant padel community.​

4. JKC (Jahangir Khan Complex): Managed by Legends Arena, JKC features padel courts that meet international standards. ​

5. Premier Club: A members-only club providing exclusive access to high-quality padel facilities.​

6. Karachi Creek Club: Combines scenic views with top-notch padel courts, offering a unique playing experience.​

7. Padel House Karachi: Dedicated entirely to padel, this venue focuses on promoting the sport through coaching and events.​

8. Southend Club: Features padel among its diverse sports offerings, attracting a broad spectrum of enthusiasts.​

9. Padel Club Karachi: Known for its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained courts, ideal for both beginners and seasoned players.​

10. Royal Rodale: A comprehensive sports and leisure club with facilities catering to padel aficionados.​

11. Bayview High Padel Courts: Affiliated with Bayview High School, these courts promote padel among students and the community.​

12. SZABIST Padel Court: Situated within the SZABIST campus, this court encourages student participation in the sport.​

The proliferation of these venues reflects Karachi’s enthusiastic embrace of padel. As the sport continues to flourish, it not only offers an exciting recreational activity but also contributes significantly to the health and well-being of its participants.​

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• Kaukab Sarwar, a Karachi-based runner, became the fastest Pakistani woman at the Tokyo Marathon 2025, completing the race in 3 hours, 52 minutes, and 25 seconds.
• Sarwar credited her success to teamwork and support, emphasizing the importance of sharing her learnings with aspiring runners in Pakistan.
• Her achievement highlights the growing presence of Pakistani women in global endurance sports, inspiring future generations.

Karachi’s very own Kaukab Sarwar has etched her name in history as the fastest Pakistani woman at the prestigious Tokyo Marathon 2025. Clocking an impressive time of 3 hours, 52 minutes, and 25 seconds, she not only shattered personal records but also set a new benchmark for Pakistani women in endurance sports.

Sarwar’s remarkable feat wasn’t just about speed; it was a story of perseverance, discipline, and an unrelenting passion for running. Her achievement in Tokyo has placed her among the elite long-distance runners representing Pakistan on the global stage, reinforcing the country’s growing presence in international marathons.

For Sarwar, the marathon was more than just a race—it was a journey of self-discovery and resilience.  The Karachi-based runner emphasized the role of her training partners and mentors in shaping her journey.

Sarwar’s victory resonates far beyond the finish line. As a role model for aspiring female athletes in Pakistan, she is proof that determination, consistency, and hard work can break barriers. In a country where endurance sports are still gaining traction among women, her achievement serves as an inspiration for the next generation of runners.

The Tokyo Marathon is one of the six World Marathon Majors, an event that brings together elite runners and dedicated athletes from around the world. Competing in such a high-profile race, Sarwar demonstrated that Pakistani runners are capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with the best. Her success marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s sports history, opening doors for more women to take up long-distance running and challenge global standards.

Looking ahead, Sarwar plans to use her experience to empower other runners back home.  These words reflect a vision that extends beyond personal accomplishments—she is paving the way for a stronger running community in the country.

As Pakistani athletes continue to make waves in international sports, Kaukab Sarwar’s triumph at the Tokyo Marathon 2025 stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. Her story is one of breaking limits, setting new goals, and proving that Pakistani women belong on the global athletic stage. With every step she took in Tokyo, she inspired a generation to chase their dreams—one mile at a time.

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• • Defying the Odds: Sana Arif, a 40-year-old Pakistani triathlete, began her Ironman journey in her late 30s and completed her first race just two years after learning to swim.
  • Challenges & Triumphs: Training in extreme conditions, balancing responsibilities, and competing in two back-to-back Ironman 70.3 races within a month, Sana has shown remarkable resilience.
  • Passion Over Recognition: Despite Pakistan’s limited triathlon culture and the challenges of being a foreign-based athlete, Sana remains dedicated to her love for the sport rather than chasing titles or external validation.

Competing in Ironman events is no small feat, but for Pakistan’s pioneering female triathlete Sana Arif, it is a journey of resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication. At 40 years old, she is not just racing against time but also against the odds of representing a country where endurance sports remain largely uncharted territory.

From Lahore to Kuwait: A Sporting Awakening

Born in Kuwait and raised in Lahore, Sana always had an affinity for sports, but it was upon returning to Kuwait in 2007 that she truly immersed herself in the world of endurance sports. She first encountered the Ironman through local sporting circles, where she met athletes who had conquered the grueling challenge. Inspired by their achievements, she decided to embark on the journey herself.

An Ironman 70.3, or half-Ironman, consists of a 1.9 km open-sea swim, a 90 km cycling leg, and a 21.1 km half marathon—an endurance race that takes years of disciplined training to master. But Sana defied expectations, starting from scratch in her late 30s and learning how to swim as recently as 2021. Two years later, she competed in her first Ironman 70.3 in Turkey.

Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated

Training for an Ironman is physically demanding and mentally exhausting. Sana had to balance twice-daily training sessions with her professional and personal life, often sacrificing social events and enduring emotionally and physically draining moments.

Her journey has been anything but easy. Competing in two Ironman 70.3 races within a single month—Antalya, Turkey (October 2023) and Bahrain (November 2024)—left little room for recovery. However, the sheer exhilaration of crossing the finish line kept her going.

The Iron-Willed Pakistani Spirit

Being one of the few Pakistani athletes in the global triathlon community comes with both pride and isolation. Pakistan still lacks a strong presence in endurance sports, making it difficult for athletes to find a robust support system.

She acknowledges the controversy surrounding dual nationals competing under the Pakistani flag for rankings despite training abroad. While she believes it’s unethical to exploit rankings, she also notes that foreign-based athletes are not always welcomed by Pakistani sports communities.

A Love for Sport, Not Recognition

Sana’s commitment to Ironman racing is rooted in her passion for the sport rather than the pursuit of titles. Her journey is proof that determination, discipline, and passion can defy all barriers. For Sana Arif, the finish line isn’t just a destination—it’s a testament to perseverance and the belief that anything is possible, no matter where you start from.

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• • • In the late 1980s, female swimmers like Shaan Kandawalla had no platform to compete, leading mothers to establish the Women’s Sindh Open in 1992.
    • Despite strict dress codes and lack of funding, persistent advocacy led to Pakistan’s first female international swimming representation in 1997.
    • Poor governance still hampers progress, but KWASA continues to sustain women’s swimming, ensuring young athletes have a platform to thrive. In the late 1980s, Pakistan’s fastest female swimmer, Shaan Kandawalla, had to sneak into a men’s race just to compete.

The story of women’s swimming in Pakistan is not just about athletes but about the determined mothers who made it possible. In 1992, a group of Karachi-based women, led by Veena Masud, Nargis Rahimatoola, Fatima Lakhani, and others, formed the Karachi Women’s Amateur Swimming Association (KWASA). They launched the Women’s Sindh Open, a competition that gave female swimmers their first real chance to race competitively. Despite strict conditions—no male spectators, knee-length swimsuits, and zero media coverage—these women built a legacy from scratch.

The early years were challenging. Competitors swam in leotards, dealt with the taboo around tampons, and had no structured coaching. Yet, they persevered. Corporate sponsorships, notably from Colgate-Palmolive, helped elevate the event, making it a staple in Pakistan’s swimming calendar. The Sindh Open soon became a proving ground for future champions, including Pakistan’s first female Olympian swimmer, Rubab Raza.

By 1997, Pakistan’s women swimmers had made their international debut at the Women’s Islamic Games in Tehran. Though they were not yet competing for medals, their participation alone was groundbreaking. However, bureaucracy, financial neglect, and a lack of proper facilities have since stifled the sport’s progress. Without government backing, parents today must fund their children’s participation in global championships, making swimming an elite privilege rather than a national sport.

Despite this, the legacy of KWASA and these pioneering mothers remains. For over 30 years, they have nurtured the sport like their own child, creating a sanctuary for female athletes to thrive. The Sindh Open has grown into an event where young girls can compete, form lifelong friendships, and experience the empowerment that sports bring.

People should see the impact sports has in empowering women. It breaks down barriers and opens so many doors for them. And thanks to these trailblazers, the doors remain open for the next generation of Pakistan’s swimmers.

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