Pakistan secure bronze medal in ITF Masters

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s tennis team made history by securing a bronze medal at the ITF Masters 45+ World Championship in Manavgat, (Turkey).

Competing for the first time in this prestigious event, the team led by captain Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and featuring Aqeel Khan and Shehryar Salamat delivered an outstanding performance against some of the world’s top tennis nations.

A total of 21 nations participated in this mega event, where Pakistan dominated the group stage with emphatic 3-0 victories over Romania and host nation Turkey. In the quarter-finals, the team displayed exceptional resilience, overcoming Czech Republic 2-1 to secure a place in the final four. In a hard-fought semi-final battle against France, Pakistan fell just short, losing 2-1, despite an epic singles victory by Aqeel Khan.

The doubles match proved decisive, where France edged out Pakistan. Team Pakistan rebounded in the third-place match, defeating Germany 2-1 to clinch the bronze medal. In bronze medal match, Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi retired in his singles match, Aqeel Khan secured a commanding singles win. Aisam and Aqeel teamed up to win the decisive doubles match. Pakistan players will now compete in individual championship starting from today (Monday).