The 11th edition of the Begum Kulsoom Saifullah Khan National Ranking Tennis Championship concluded with new champions crowned at the PTF Tennis Complex in Islamabad. The tournament saw intense competition from approximately 250 players hailing from all corners of Pakistan.
New Champions Emerge in Singles Finals
In the men's singles final, Muzammil Murtaza delivered a standout performance to overcome the seasoned campaigner Aqeel Khan and capture the national title. On the women's side, Maheen Aftab Qureshi demonstrated her skill and determination, defeating Soha Ali to secure the women's singles crown.
Doubles and Junior Champions Celebrated
The event also showcased thrilling contests in doubles and junior categories. The men's doubles title was won by the pair of Ahmed Nail Qureshi and Abubakar Talha, who triumphed over Barkatullah and Yousuf Khalil.
In the junior events, several future stars made their mark:
- Hamza Roman claimed the boys' under-18 title by beating Abubakar Talha.
- Muhammad Junaid won the boys' under-14 crown after a victory against Muhammad Muaz.
- The girls' under-14 title went to Aiman Rehan, who defeated Khadija Khalil in the final.
- Muhammad Farhan lifted the boys' under-12 trophy by overcoming Muhammad Daniyal.
Officials Praise Growth and Legacy of Pakistani Tennis
The closing ceremony was graced by Federal Minister for Housing Riaz Hussain Pirzada as the chief guest. He distributed prizes alongside Pakistan Tennis Federation patron-in-chief Saleem Saifullah Khan and the Ambassador of the Czech Republic.
Minister Pirzada acknowledged the significant role of the Saifullah Khan family in promoting tennis within the country. He also called for greater recognition of veterans like Aqeel Khan, who have served Pakistan for decades.
Saleem Saifullah Khan paid a special tribute to Aqeel Khan's unparalleled contribution, noting, "Aqeel has represented Pakistan in 60 Davis Cup ties and remains one of the country's finest players. The government and the ITF should honour him for his services." He expressed pride in the growing stature of the tournament, named after his mother, highlighting the participation of around 250 players as a sign of rising interest.
In a significant announcement for Pakistani tennis, Saleem Saifullah Khan confirmed that Pakistan is scheduled to host Senegal in a Davis Cup tie in February. This follows the construction of a new international-standard grass court in Islamabad, a project completed with the support of Minister Riaz Hussain Pirzada.
