Aqeel claims Federal Cup Tennis crown

ISLAMABAD: Aqeel Khan rallied back from one-set down to beat Muzammil Murtaza in the final of men’s singles of 33rd Federal Cup Tennis that concluded at the PTF/DA Complex Sunday.

Aqeel beat Muzammil Murtaza 3-6, 6-3, 4-2 (rtd) in a match that started with a real promise but concluded on a low key. Muzzamil could not continue owing to upset stomach and exhaustion and thus conceded the

Aqeel started the final in aggressive style, breaking Muzammil at the outset to take 2-0 lead. Muzammil who was seen playing in aggressive style fought back to make it 2-2. He continued his pressure on Aqeel and won the opening set at 6-3.

In the second set score went up to 3-3 as both players held their respective services. Aqeel Khan won the second set at 6-3 by breaking 8th game of Muzammil after a few deuces. Both players displayed quality tennis with some long rallies ending the points.

In the final set Aqeel Khan gained 2-0 lead by breaking the Muzammil Murtaza’s first serve.

When Aqeel Khan won the 6th game by holding his own serve Muzammil conceded the match due to stomatch problem.

“Even I was not fully fit and was having calf muscle problems. A day break because of the rain helped me regroup,” Aqeel said. Even at 40 Aqeel continues to dominate the domestic circuit. “I will play as long as I feel I am fit and can contribute for the country and for tennis.” He said he always welcomed his opponent playing all out. “When you play tough tennis, you can bring the best out of yourself. I always welcome a player stretching me to full,” he said.

Aqeel Khan scooped up Rs. 60,000/- along with beautiful trophy, whereas Muzammil Murtaza pocketed Rs. 40,000/- as runner up prize. Shahzad and Abid won the men’s double tile. Ladies singles final between Sara Mansoor and Sarah Mahboob will be played on 14th Feb, 2020 after the arrival of ladies team from New Zealand.

Secretary Islamabad Tennis Association Arif Qureshi paid rich tributes to late Syed Dilawar Abbas who established Islamabad Tennis Association (ITA) and for his valuable contribution for the uplift of tennis.

Tariq Murtaza, President ITA and Chairman RDCA grace the occasion as chief guest and distributed the cash prizes among the winners.

Salim Saifullah Khan President PTF, Khawar Hyat SEVP, Col. Gul Rehman[R], Saeed Ahmed, Hassan Baig, Nighat Saeed and tennis lovers witnessed the entertaining final.