Tharjini Sivalingam was born on December 30, 1978 in Sri Lanka. She grew up during the tumultuous period of the Sri Lankan Civil War, which had a significant impact on her childhood. During this time, her family home was damaged, leading them to relocate to Batticaloa when she was just 20 years old.
Despite the challenges she faced, Tharjini remained focused on her education. She pursued a bachelor of arts degree in economics from the Eastern University Sri Lanka, demonstrating her commitment to her academic and personal growth.
Tharjini Sivalingam's entry into the world of netball marked the beginning of a remarkable journey. She quickly established herself as a standout player, catching the attention of the Sri Lanka national netball team. Her talent and dedication earned her a spot on the team, where she would go on to achieve great success.
Tharjini's prowess on the netball court was evident as she helped lead the national team to victory at the 2009, 2018, and 2022 Asian Netball Championships, securing gold medals for her country. Her exceptional performance made her a key player in the team's success, earning her recognition as one of the top netball players in Sri Lanka.
In 2011, Tharjini received the prestigious World's Best Shooter Award, highlighting her superior skills and contributions to the sport. Her impressive achievements continued to garner attention and accolades, further solidifying her reputation as a top athlete in the world of netball.
Tharjini Sivalingam's impact extended beyond the netball court, earning her recognition for her various accomplishments. In 2022, she was honored with the Sports Icon Award at the Maldives Sports Awards, acknowledging her significant contributions to the world of sports.
Additionally, Tharjini made history in 2022 when she was officially recognized as the tallest netball player in the world, standing at an impressive height of 6 feet 9 inches. This distinctive attribute further set her apart as a unique and extraordinary athlete in the global netball community.
After a long and illustrious career, Tharjini Sivalingam made the difficult decision to retire from Team Sri Lanka following the 2023 Netball World Cup. Her retirement marked the end of an era for Sri Lankan netball, as she bid farewell to her teammates and fans.
Despite her retirement, Tharjini's legacy as a pioneering figure in Sri Lankan netball continues to inspire generations of athletes. Her achievements and contributions to the sport will forever be remembered, ensuring that her impact on the world of netball remains enduring and profound.
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