The tennis community in Pakistan is currently mourning the untimely passing of young talent, Zainab Ali Naqvi, who tragically passed away at the age of 18 while participating in the ITF Junior Tennis Championship in Islamabad. The unfortunate incident, suspected to be caused by heart failure, has left the sports world in shock and mourning.
Zainab, who had travelled from Karachi to Islamabad to compete in the tournament, sadly passed away on Monday night. In light of this heartbreaking news, all matches scheduled for Tuesday were postponed as a mark of respect for Zainab, and they are now slated to take place on Wednesday as per the original schedule.
Officials from the Pakistan Tennis Federation revealed that Zainab had completed a practice session on Monday evening before returning to the guest house in sector F-6 where she was staying with her grandmother. It was reported that after heading to the guest house, Zainab went to take a shower but did not return for an extended period of time. Concerned, her grandmother called out to her, but received no response. Subsequently, the staff at the guest house broke down the door of the bathroom only to discover Zainab unconscious. She was promptly rushed to Kulsum International Hospital, where she was pronounced dead upon arrival.
While the official cause of Zainab’s passing will be confirmed in the autopsy report, initial speculations point towards a possible heart failure resulting from showering immediately after an intense practice session.
In an official news release, the Pakistan Tennis Federation expressed their deep sorrow and conveyed the news of Zainab’s passing with profound grief. Furthermore, they extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased. A joint prayer was held in remembrance of Zainab, and a minute’s silence was observed by players, coaches, and officials alike.
Arif Qureshi, the treasurer of the PTF, shared that Zainab was not only a brilliant player, but also a bronze medallist at last year’s National Games. He also acknowledged the cooperation received from hospital staff, law enforcement, and the International Tennis Federation in facilitating the timely transfer of Zainab’s remains to Karachi.
This tragic loss has deeply impacted the tennis fraternity in Pakistan, as Zainab’s promising talent and potential will forever be remembered. The entire sports community is united in offering prayers for the departed soul and solace to her grieving loved ones.
Source: Dawn, February 14th, 2024