Former Indian tennis player Sania Mirza has urged her supporters to keep her in their thoughts and prayers as she embarks on the “journey of a lifetime” to perform Hajj this month.

“Dear friends and loved ones, I have been blessed with the incredible opportunity to embark on the sacred journey of Hajj,” she said in an X post on Sunday.

Sania, one of India’s most accomplished tennis players, announced her retirement last year after a 20-year career, during which she secured 43 WTA doubles titles and one singles trophy, establishing herself as a trailblazer for women in sports.

She and Shoaib Malik, her former husband, parted ways after more than 13 years of marriage. They have a son together Izaan. Her father had confirmed the divorce after Malik married for the second time.

The all-rounder cricketer tied the knot with actress Sana Javed in January. Sana and Shoaib had worked together in the past when the cricketer acted as a model and walked on the ramps.

Sania asked for people’s forgiveness for any wrongdoings and shortcomings before the holy pilgrimage.

“My heart is filled with gratitude for this chance to seek redemption and spiritual renewal. I pray that Allah accepts my prayers and guides me on the blessed path,” Sania said.

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The former wife of Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik prayed that Allah accept her prayers and guides her on the “blessed path”.

She said: “I hope to come back as a better human being with a humble heart and stronger imaan.”