Pakistan all set to stage first-ever $50,000 ATP Challenger in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: In a proud moment for Pakistan sports, the country is set to host its first-ever $50,000 ATP Challenger Tournament, opening a new chapter in national tennis history. The event, scheduled to begin in Islamabad from November 24, will feature international stars, ATP top officials, and unprecedented local participation.

Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) President Aisamul Haq Qureshi, unveiling details of the event on Monday, said the tournament would “take Pakistan tennis to new heights.” “For the first time ever, we are hosting a mega ATP Challenger in Islamabad. Besides leading international players ranked around 200 in the world, ATP top brass has also been invited to visit Pakistan,” Aisam said.

“We’ll avail eight men’s singles wild cards, three for the main draw and five for the qualifying round to give our top local players a golden chance to compete alongside the best.” Aisam, who was accompanied by Col Gul Rehman (Director PTF), also announced that he plans to partner Muzammil Murtaza in the doubles event, aiming to inspire young players through on-court leadership.

In another major development, Aisam revealed that Pakistan’s promising youngsters Mikaeel Ali Baig and Shayan Afridi will compete in the prestigious Orange Bowl International Tennis Championship. “I played in the Orange Bowl back in 1996, and it’s always been my dream to see Pakistani juniors participate again. Now, that dream is being realized,” Aisam said proudly. Unveiling future plans, the PTF President announced the country’s first-ever Pakistan Tennis League (PTL), set to begin next year.

“The PTL will give our top youngsters a chance to play alongside international players. After cricket, tennis is now the second sport attracting the highest number of foreign players to Pakistan,” Aisam noted.

“My dream is to see tennis flourish in every corner of Pakistan. Through the PTL, we will create heroes, ignite passion, and bring tennis into the national spotlight.” Aisam also thanked Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for his unwavering support in resolving the long-standing lease issue of the PTF Complex in Islamabad.

“Thanks to Mr. Naqvi, we have saved nearly Rs 100 million after the Capital Development Authority (CDA) agreed to extend the lease on old rates. He has also assured full support for Pakistan’s first covered tennis complex,” Aisam revealed.

In yet another positive development, the PTF will soon sign an MoU with Pakistan Sweet Homes to provide residential, educational, and training facilities to talented children from remote regions.

“We know tennis opportunities are scarce in smaller towns. Through this partnership, junior players who’ve shown promise will receive free education and professional coaching while living in Islamabad,” Aisam announced.

Concluding the session, Aisam expressed hope that Pakistan’s successful hosting of international tennis events would continue to project a positive image of the country. “It’s our collective responsibility to promote a softer image of Pakistan,” he said. “This Challenger is just the beginning of a bright new era for Pakistan tennis.”