Pakistan women’s football team star Malika-e-Noor on Friday announced her shock retirement from international football with immediate effect.
Noor, 30, has played 25 matches for the national team, the most for the team. Following her international retirement, she will continue to play in domestic tournaments.
Noor was in the limelight when she scored the 89th-minute winning goal from a penalty spot in Pakistan's first competitive victory at the 2010 SAFF Women's Championship helping the team beat the Maldives 2–1.
“Probably the hardest decision that I have made in my life! I wasn’t mentally ready—I thought I would give some more years to the team—but the scenarios have changed, and this feels like a must-do,” Noor posted on her social media account.
“RETIREMENT FROM INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL!”
“Representing my country on the world stage has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and I am incredibly grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to wear the national team jersey.”
The 30-year-old called her time with the national team “unforgettable” as she learned a lot from her debut to the day of her retirement. She then went on to thank her friends and family for supporting her throughout the career and helping her to become the best version of herself.
“From my debut to my final match, the journey has been filled with unforgettable moments, hard-fought victories, and invaluable lessons. I have been privileged to play alongside some of the best teammates and under the guidance of exceptional coaches. Each match and every training session has shaped me not only as a player but also as a person.
“Thank you to my family and friends for your unwavering support and sacrifices, allowing me to pursue my dreams. To my teammates, thank you for your fellowship and for pushing me to be the best version of myself. And to the fans, your passion and encouragement have been the driving force behind every performance.
“Though I am stepping away from international play, I look forward to continuing my career at the club level and contributing to the game in new ways. I will forever cherish the memories made and the relationships built through this incredible journey.
“My thoughts and best wishes remain with the youth. I hope they find themselves in an environment where they are safe, heard, and treated with equality. Young girls are driving change within the system, and I trust that stakeholders and authorities will recognize this and support the youth in achieving their dreams.”
