Muzammil, Mahin land CJCSC Tennis crowns

ISLAMABAD: Muzammil Murtaza landed his maiden national ranking men’s singles title when he beat Mohammad Abid 7-5, 6-3 in the final of the 1st Chairman JCSC Tennis Championships here at the PTF Complex Saturday.

Muzammil led 5-0 in the first set courtesy some powerful forehand and backhand drives from the baseline. Abid had no clue as the final was rapidly going Muzammil’s way.

Abid, however, recovered well and took the attack back to his opponent. He started finding his touch and drew level at 5-5.

“With the first set almost won, I came under pressure. I started hitting erratic shots,” Muzammil said. “It was only after my coach Hameedul Haq changed my racket and boosted my confidence that I started playing my normal game.”

Muzammil won the next two games to take the lead. He was seen playing at his best in the second set that he completely dominated.

“In the last two years I have played so many finals — and even snatched a set from Aqeel Khan in one of them — but was never able to win the title. I am thankful to Allah Almighty that I have finally made it,” Muzammil said.

Earlier, Mahin Aftab got the better of the experienced Sara Mansoor 6-4, 6-3 to win the women’s singles title. Mahin was seen on top of her game and never allowed Sara to stage a recovery in both sets.

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat was the chief guest on the occasion. Pakistan Tennis Federation President Salim Saifullah Khan was also present.