Game Changers: Meet The Arab Queens Of Racket Sports Making History
In the world of sports, there are a special few whose names shine through due to their continuous astounding achievements and incredible athletic ability. The racket world is no exception, and that’s why we present to you a collection of female Arab athletes who’ve proven time and time again their domination of the sport.
Ons Jabeur
In 2011, after winning the Roland-Garros Girls’ Tournament, Tunisian Ons Jabeur became the first-ever African tennis player to add her name to a trophy of a Grand Slam Tournament. Today, she’s known as the best tennis player in Africa. She’s currently slaying her way through the Australian Open.
Nour El Sherbini
Known as a seven-time World Champion and the youngest woman to win the Women’s World Championship, Egyptian Squash Player Nour El Sherbini has only been rising to the top. Today, she continues to stand tall after reclaiming her World No. 1 spot from Nouran Gohar.
Mayar Sherif
Dominating the world of tennis, Egyptian Mayar Sherif won all six WTA 125 finals she has made in her career, making her a reining champion. Today, she continues to slay the sport, marked by her most recent win last year when she secured her first WTA Tour title.
Aisha Alawadi
Within just one year of picking up the racket, the UAE’s padel tennis rising star, Aisha Alawadi, became the first Arab player to compete in the World Padel Tour. She’s continuing to make a name for herself by competing in major tournaments including the NAS Sports Tournament.
Hana Goda
Age is just a number, as the young Egyptian Table Tennis Champion Hana Goda managed to become the youngest winner of a Continental Cup title by winning the Women’s Singles Championship at the ITTF-Africa Cup when she was 14.
Rana Abu Harbesh & Haya Al-Mudra
Recently, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia made history after its two female badminton players, Rana Abu Harbesh and Haya Al-Mudra, competed in the Asian Games in Jakarta for the first time. This year, they’re gearing up to earn a spot in the upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Seeing how more female athletes are dominating the world of racket sports, more aspiring athletes will be inspired to follow in their path and further expand their horizons.