February 16, 2026
Pakistani female squash player faces online criticism over attire
Pakistani female squash players are facing online criticism for their on-court attire, sparking a debate about women's participation in sports and societal expectations.
News Desk
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Mehwish Ali of Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) secured her 16th national title and overall 30th gold medal (national and international combined) at the 1st Rawalpindi Women National U-19 Championship held at the Liaquat Bagh Sports Complex.
Following her recent victory, social media users have criticized the Pakistani female squash player over their on-court attire, according to posts circulating online.
Screenshots shared widely on Facebook show individuals mocking and questioning the player's choice of sports clothing, with some comments focusing specifically on the skirt/skort (shorts with a skirt overlay) she wore for the final.
The online discussion includes remarks questioning whether women should participate in sports while wearing such attire. Other users responded by defending the athletes and urging critics not to focus on clothing.
Similar criticism has previously been directed at other female athletes, including members of the national women’s football team during international competitions.
Among Pakistan’s prominent female squash players are Peshawar-based sisters Mahnoor Ali and Sehrish Ali. Collectively, they have secured 47 gold medals out of a total of 60 international medals. Sehrish Ali has earned 20 gold medals, seven silver medals, and five bronze medals while competing in Australia, Singapore, Czech Republic, and Malaysia. Mahnoor Ali has won 27 gold medals, comprising 13 national and 14 international titles, along with one silver and five bronze medals.
The sisters have stated that despite societal barriers, they have continued competing with the support of their father, and remain focused on representing Pakistan at international events.
Professional and international competitions follow dress guidelines set by the World Squash Federation and tournament organizers. These guidelines generally require appropriate sports attire suitable for performance and safety, such as athletic tops, skirts or shorts, and non-marking court shoes.
