Indian tennis legend Sania Mirza has retired from professional tennis, following a 20-year career that saw her represent India at the highest level of the sport.
Despite India's lack of success in women's singles, Mirza won six doubles Grand Slam titles, and spent 91 weeks as the doubles World No. 1. Her decision to retire was a personal one, and came after she reached the final of the Australian Open last month.
In an interview with The Indian Express prior to the tournament, Mirza spoke of the various challenges she faced during her storied career, and the enormous self-belief that led to her success.
Mirza's legacy extends beyond her achievements on the court; she was a path-breaker, and a trendsetter for young Indian women with a dream to pursue sports professionally.
Her parting words to these women were to back themselves, no matter how outside the box their choices might be.
