Pakistan’s 20-year-old judoka, Malaika Noor, has etched her name in history by becoming the first-ever Pakistani woman to win a silver medal at an Asian-level judo championship. Competing in the 52kg category at the Amman Asian Open 2025, Malaika delivered a stunning performance, defeating Jordan’s Raneem Aljazazi in the semifinal before narrowly missing gold in the final. She sealed her semifinal victory in less than three minutes, proving her remarkable skill and determination.
This was only Malaika’s second international outing. Last year, she represented Pakistan at the World Junior Judo Championship 2024 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, where she exited in the early rounds but earned appreciation from the International Judo Federation for her talent.
“She has shown tremendous improvement from her last appearance,” said Pakistan Judo Federation (PJF) Secretary Masood Ahmed. “She trains at Qayyum Stadium in Peshawar, represents Wapda domestically, and is fast emerging as one of Pakistan’s brightest hopes in judo.”
PJF President Col. Junaid Alam and the entire federation praised her for the groundbreaking achievement, calling it a proud moment for Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Pakistan fielded five judokas at the Amman event, including Noor Khan from Balochistan and Muhammad Abbas from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, alongside Faisal Shah, Ahmed, and Adnan, who made their international debuts. Though many of them were eliminated in pre-quarterfinals, their participation marked a crucial step in Pakistan’s growing judo journey.
PJF officials emphasized the importance of grooming young players through international exposure. They also urged the Pakistan Sports Board to support future training camps so these athletes can continue bringing glory to the nation.
