A Tribute to Laiba Ahmed Mahloof
Today, our hearts swell with pride, our eyes glisten with tears of joy, and our voices unite in celebration of a young hero who has etched her name in the annals of Maldivian history. Laiba Ahmed Mahloof, at just 12 years old, have not only won three gold medals at the Armenian Youth Open 2025 but have lifted the spirit of an entire nation, carrying the Maldives’ flag to heights never reached before.
“With every swing of your racket, you’ve shown the world what it means to dream big, to fight fiercely, and to love deeply. Your passion for badminton and your devotion to our country shine brighter than the gold you’ve earned. In singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, you faced the best, undaunted, and emerged victorious, becoming the first Maldivian to claim such glory in an international youth tournament sanctioned by Badminton Europe.
Laiba, you are more than an athlete; you are a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of perseverance, and a reminder that no dream is too big for a heart as brave as yours. From the courts of Moldova to the arenas of Italy, and now in Armenia, your journey of 19 international medals: culminating in this historic triple gold; tells a story of grit, grace, and unwavering determination. At 11, you were honored at the Maldives Sports Awards; at 12, you’ve become our nation’s pride.
To the young girl from the Maldives who dared to dream beyond the horizon, thank you. Thank you for showing our children that courage knows no age, that hard work writes history, and that the Maldivian spirit can conquer any challenge. Your victories are not yours alone: they belong to every Maldivian who cheers your name, to every parent who sees possibility in their child, and to every dreamer who dares to believe.
As you stand tall with those gold medals around your neck, know that you’ve ignited a fire in our hearts. The Maldives is prouder today because of you, Laiba. You are our champion, our inspiration, and our shining star. Keep soaring, keep shining, and know that a nation stands behind you, forever grateful for the pride you’ve brought to our shores.”
Smile and Let Smile 