Ageing Aqeel adds another feather to his cap

ISLAMABAD: In a dazzling display of grit, experience, and masterful tennis, seasoned campaigner Aqeel Khan outlasted Muzammil Murtaza in an exciting three-set showdown to capture the men’s singles crown at the first Emerging Pakistan National Ranking Tennis (Balochistan Open) Championships that concluded here Wednesday at the PTF Complex.

Aqeel, a stalwart of Pakistan’s tennis, showed why he remains a force to reckon with, defeating Muzammil 6-2, 6-7(5), 6-3 in a pulsating final that thrilled spectators and reaffirmed his legendary status in the national tennis circuit.

The match unfolded like a classic duel -- a gripping contest of stamina, strategy, and mental toughness. Aqeel came out of the gates firing on all cylinders, storming to a commanding 3-0 lead in the opening set with razor-sharp groundstrokes and flawless court coverage. He maintained the momentum to seal the first set 6-2, leaving no doubt about his intent.

But Muzammil, known for his resilience and evolving game, mounted an inspired comeback in the second set. With deft adjustments in his play and a newfound rhythm, he pushed Aqeel to the limit, eventually edging out the set in a high-tension tiebreaker 7-6(5), much to the crowd’s delight.

With the match finely poised at one set apiece, the third set was a test of nerves. Aqeel’s years of experience and championship pedigree came to the fore. Calm under pressure, he constructed points with surgical precision, broke Muzammil at a critical juncture, and surged ahead to take the final set 6-3, sealing the victory and the prestigious title.

At the PTF Complex in the evening, Aqeel lifted the trophy to loud applause, proving once again that class is permanent. The match not only showcased his enduring brilliance but also the rising standard of Pakistani tennis, promising an exciting future for the sport.

Organized by the PTF, this inaugural edition saw more than 200 players competing across six categories -- men’s singles, men’s doubles, ladies’ singles, boys’ under-18 singles, boys’ under-14 singles, and boys’ under-12 singles. men’s singles final.

Jam Kamal Khan, Federal Minister for Commerce, graced the ceremony as chief guest and distributed trophies among the winners and runners-up. Also in attendance were Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, Secretary IPC and guest of honor; Muhammad Atif Fayyaz, Chief Coordinator; Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF); and Col. Zia-ud-Din Tufail, Secretary PTF.

Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi extended heartfelt thanks to the honorable minister for sponsoring this landmark event. In his remarks, Jam Kamal commended the efforts of the PTF President for revitalizing the sport of tennis in Pakistan.

Results: Men’s singles (final): Aqeel Khan bt Muzammil Murtaza 6-2, 6-7(5), 6-3.

Ladies’ singles (final): Ushna Suhail bt Zunaisha Noor 6-2, 6-1.

Junior 18 & Under singles (final): Abubakar Talha beat Muhammad Salar 6-1, 6-3.

Boys 14 & Under singles final: Muhammad Junaid beat Muhammad Muaz 6-7(3), 6-1, 6-1.

Boys 12 & Under singles final: Muhammad Aayan bt Muhammad Muaz 4-2, 4-2.