Sania Mirza Refuses to Play with Israeli Player Shahar Pe’er
Fearing violent protests by the Islamic community, Indian tennis player Sania Mirza, ranked 39th in the world, refused to play with Israeli player Shahar Pe’er in a doubles match at the Bangalore Open. The two were prevented from playing together at the Australian Open for the same reason.
Mirza initially agreed to play with Pe’er in Bangalore, but later retracted, telling Pe’er “It’s best that we don’t play together this
time to prevent protests against my cooperation with an Israeli. There is no reason to arouse their ire (Muslims).”Mirza, a sports hero in her country, was recently chastised by Muslim groups in India for wearing a sleeveless top and a mini-skirt during her matches. Local Muslim groups claimed that her attire degrades Islam, and some even threatened to kill her.
Last November, Mirza ignited much controversy after expressing her thoughts on the importance of safe sex and act which caused Muslim groups in New Delhi to protest vehemently against the young tennis player.
I’m not surprised that Mirza would opt not to play with Pe’er for fear of protests that might spiral out of control. But it’s a sad state of affairs nonetheless.
(source)
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1 opinion for Sania Mirza Refuses to Play with Israeli Player Shahar Pe’er
mohd ghouse
Apr 22, 2006 at 10:04 am
sania please concentrate on dress think about our religion please leave the game instead of listening stupid words from the muslims
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