Sania Mirza reveals struggles from panic attacks to single parenting
Farah praised Sania’s courage, calling her “a brave single mother” juggling parenting and work with remarkable grace and strength.
Hyderabad: For the first time since her widely discussed separation from Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik, Indian tennis icon Sania Mirza has opened up about the emotional turmoil she went through during that difficult phase of her life. In a deeply personal conversation on the latest episode of her YouTube show Serving It Up with Sania, the former world No. 1 spoke candidly about panic attacks, heartbreak, and navigating life as a single parent.
The episode featured filmmaker and Sania’s close friend Farah Khan, who joined her for what turned into a heartfelt and honest dialogue about strength, vulnerability, and healing. Farah revealed that she had personally witnessed Sania experience panic attacks after the divorce—something she had never seen the athlete go through in all the years of their friendship.
“I had never seen you have a panic attack. I got so scared,” Farah recalled, describing an incident where Sania felt overwhelmed just moments before a live show. Sania, visibly emotional while recounting the memory, added, “I was shivering… If you hadn’t come, I wouldn’t have done that show.”
The revelation offered viewers a rare glimpse into the mental health challenges Sania faced—challenges often hidden by public figures who feel pressured to appear strong at all times.
As the conversation turned toward parenting, Sania opened up about the clarity with which she approached her son Izhaan’s well-being during the separation. Because if a child is going to see two people that are extremely unhappy, then there is a certain call you have to take.”
She also reflected on the misconception that children can be shielded by pretending everything is fine.
Sania and Shoaib Malik ended their 14-year marriage in January 2024, following months of speculation about their relationship. The couple, who married in 2010, welcomed their son, Izhaan Mirza Malik, in October 2018. Izhaan now lives with Sania in Dubai, where she has been balancing motherhood and the next chapter of her professional life.
Farah, who has been one of Sania’s strongest pillars of support, praised her strength on the show, calling her “a brave single mother” who continues to take on both parenting and work with grace, resilience, and honesty.
For fans and followers who have admired Sania not just for her sporting achievements but also for her authenticity, this conversation offered a deeper understanding of the emotional battles she fought away from the spotlight.
With this episode, Sania reminded viewers that even the strongest people can break down, and that seeking support—from friends, family, or professionals—is not a sign of weakness but an act of courage.
The tennis star’s willingness to share her struggles has sparked conversations about mental health, self-care, and the realities of single parenting, making her story resonate with countless people facing their own silent battles.