COVER STORY
Noor Zaman has been giving Pakistani sports fans a reason to rejoice. The young squash sensation recently won the inaugural edition of the Under-23 World Squash Championship this year, bringing glory to the country and reviving interest in a sport that once used to be dominated by Pakistani players. Now, Noor is both carrying forward the illustrious legacy of his grandfather, Qamar Zaman – the iconic ‘Stroke Master’ who clinched the British Open title in 1975, dominated the squash scene as World No. 1 for three years, and received the Pride of Performance award in 1984 – and also basking in the glory of his own achievements.
His list of accolades include two Asian Junior Championship titles, a silver medal at the 2023 Asian Games, and a bronze in the 2024 Asian Senior Team Event.
At just 21, with a world ranking of 60, Noor’s efforts are shaking things up in the squash world and proving that he’s not just riding his grandfather’s coattails, he’s here to build his own legacy.
Let’s dive into the life of this promising athlete who’s redefining what it means to be a champion.
Us: Thank you, Noor, for bringing back our lost glory. When you were playing the final, did it hit you that you were about to make history?
Noor Zaman: You know, my granddad always said to fight till the last whistle and never back down. That mentality pushed me to keep hustling!
Us: After winning such a prestigious title, who were some of the high-profile people that reached out to you?
NZ: I got props from some pretty big names, like the President, the Prime Minister, and even Chief Minister Punjab Mariam Nawaz. The support was unreal!
Us: Once you stepped onto that squash court for the final, what was running through your mind?
NZ: All that was on my mind was to grind for every single point, no matter what! When I was down 2-0, I told myself to bounce back; I needed to bring that cup home to Pakistan after 30 years!
Us: How tough was your opponent in the final?
NZ: [Playing against] Kareem El Torkey of Egypt was no walk in the park. He had just bagged two titles in Canada and another one in India, so dude was on fire! At first, his speed threw me off, and when I was 0-2 down, I said to myself “don’t go for the win, just play your game.” I followed it and turned the game around.
Us: Who deserves the credit for your success?
NZ: It's got to be my granddad. He believed in me and pushed me to reach this level.
Us: Who else has been a key player in your journey toward victory?
NZ: I couldn’t have accomplished this without the guidance and support of Sir Zaheer Ahmed Baber (Chief of Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force) and Sir Amir Nawaz at Pakistan squash Federation.
Us: Who do you look up to in the international squash scene?
NZ: My only inspiration is my granddad. No one plays like him – his technique, defence, attack … just next level!
Us: Reflecting on your childhood, how did you get hooked on squash?
NZ: It’s in my blood, but back in the day, I was kind of chubby and hated running, so I really wasn’t into it. My granddad’s legendary career lit a fire in me. I had to step it up, ditch the junk food, and get serious about fitness!
Us: What would you say is your secret sauce in squash?
NZ: My entire skill set is crucial, but adaptability is key.
Us: What’s your game plan when your opponent gets in a groove?
NZ: You can’t step into a match without a strategy! I always have one. I study their game tapes and brainstorm with my coaches to cook up the best match plan.
Us: When your family is watching from the stands, does it make you nervous?
NZ: Not really! I zone in on my game and forget who’s there. It’s all about the win for my country!
Us: What tournaments are you hyped about next?
NZ: I’m really looking forward to the World Open Senior in Chicago and the British Open in June!
Us: How are you prepping for those upcoming challenges?
NZ: Fitness is everything! The top players are all equally skilled; it’s their fitness that sets them apart. I focus on exploiting my opponent’s weaknesses while staying in the attacking zone.
Us: What do you think you need to keep up your winning streak?
NZ: Sadly, there aren’t enough tournaments in Pakistan. To really level up my game, I need to compete with international players for more experience and skill diversity.
Us: Are you into mobile games like most guys your age?
NZ: Believe it or not, I didn’t even get a phone until I was 17! I think it should just be a tool for communication, not a distraction from our goals. Balance is key!
Us: How do you make time for socializing?
NZ: I don’t really hang out much. It’s all about my game, home, and family. I’m tight with my fam and laser-focused on my goals. I’m not into music or movies – I'm just grinding to elevate my game and make my country proud!
Us: How do you feel about the treatment of squash in Pakistan?
NZ: It’s a bummer, honestly. Squash has put Pakistan on the map with major wins and champions, yet it doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. Even at the corporate level, it’s overlooked. Players don’t get sponsorships like cricketers do.
Us: What do you think could boost the popularity of squash?
NZ: We need squash courts in schools and colleges! If students are encouraged to play, it’d spark interest. Plus, contests between schools would totally amp up the vibe!