The birth of her son, Izhaan, in 2018, pivoted her public image again. She became the “supermom” athlete, returning to win Grand Slams post-partum. But the romantic storyline grew more complex. Shoaib Malik’s cricketing career took him away for long periods; Sania was often seen traveling the tour with her son and sister.

However, the romantic storyline began almost immediately. As a photogenic, unmarried Muslim woman in India’s conservative gaze, her personal life became public property. Early rumors linked her to cricketers and fellow athletes—most notably, a persistent, though unsubstantiated, link-up with Indian batsman MS Dhoni. The narrative was purely speculative, driven by their shared status as young, ambitious sports icons. Sania dismissed these firmly, but the pattern was set: her professional success would always be accompanied by the question, “Who is she dating?”

Rumors of a rift began circulating in Pakistani and Indian tabloids—missing birthday posts, lack of public appearances together, cryptic social media quotes. Sania’s Instagram became a masterclass in subtext: quotes about “self-worth,” “starting over,” and “peace over drama.” The public devoured these breadcrumbs. The “perfect marriage” narrative was now a mystery novel.

In late 2022, rumors exploded when Shoaib Malik was seen with actress Sana Javed. Sania’s family confirmed the separation, and in January 2024, Malik posted photos of his wedding to Javed, publicly closing the Sania chapter.