Year 2024: A stellar one for Pakistan squash

January 19, 2025

Year 2024: A stellar one for Pakistan squash

The year 2024 marked an exceptional chapter for Pakistan squash, showcasing resilience and resurgence in the global arena. With achievements spanning junior, professional and masters categories, Pakistani players brought pride and prestige to the nation. Here’s a comprehensive look at their accomplishments and the year’s key highlights.

Junior Success on
a Global Stage

Pakistani juniors dominated the international squash circuit in 2024, bringing home an impressive 24 gold medals from four continents. Among the standout performances, Mahnoor Ali claimed the Asian No. 1 ranking in the Girls Under-13 category and secured a historic first-ever women’s title at the US Junior Open. Similarly, young Harmas Ali Raja made headlines by winning the Boys Under-11 category at the same event.

This winning streak extended to prestigious tournaments like the Australian Junior Open, where players like Yahya Khan and Ibrahim Zeb clinched top honors in their respective age groups. Notably, Mahnoor Ali continued her winning spree at events like the Nordic Junior Open and Hungarian Junior Open, solidifying her position as a dominant force in junior squash.

Rise of Professionals on the PSA Tour

Pakistani professional squash players made significant progress on the PSA (Professional Squash Association) Tour in 2024. The country saw an increase in the number of players ranked in the world’s Top 100, rising from two in 2023 to four this year. Muhammad Asim Khan climbed to a career-high rank of 59, winning four PSA titles, including the prestigious Charlottesville Open. Meanwhile, players like Nasir Iqbal, Noor Zaman and Muhammad Ashab Irfan showcased consistent performances, earning multiple titles and finals appearances.

The local squash scene also thrived, with Pakistan hosting five PSA tournaments, including the CAS Serena Hotels International Squash Championship, where Noor Zaman emerged victorious. Such events not only boosted local players but also brought international talent to Pakistani courts.

National
Competitions: A Growing Ecosystem

National squash tournaments flourished, offering platforms for players across various age groups. Major events included the Torsam Khan Image All Pakistan Squash Championship, the Al Baraka Bank Jahangir Khan Junior Squash Championship, the 1st Qamar Zaman All Pakistan National Junior Championship, and the Combaxx Roshan Khan National Team Championships.

These tournaments were instrumental in identifying and nurturing young talent, ensuring a strong pipeline for the future.

The Pakistan Squash Federation also organised the 31st Asian Junior Individual Championships in Islamabad, attracting players from across Asia. This landmark event underscored Pakistan’s capacity to host international tournaments and reaffirmed its commitment to growing the sport.

Pakistan Team’s
Performances on
International Stage

The Pakistan National Team delivered notable performances at international events in 2024. At the Asian Teams Championships, the men’s team secured a bronze medal, showcasing their prowess against top Asian competitors. Additionally, Pakistani juniors excelled at the World Junior Championships held in Houston, with Hamza Khan achieving a top eight finish.

Masters’ players also contributed to Pakistan’s success. Veterans like Irfan Asghar, Jahangir Khan Jr., and Fayyaz Khan claimed titles at events such as the Asian Masters, Malaysian Masters, and German Masters, proving that age is no barrier to excellence and, of course, that squash is uniquely a lifelong sport.

Key Supporters and Sponsors

The success of Pakistan squash in 2024 was made possible by the unwavering support of individuals, corporations and institutions. All these and of course the sponsors played pivotal roles in funding and organising events. Additionally, foundations like the BARD Foundation and Markhor Squash Foundation, alongside individual contributors were instrumental in promoting the sport.

Internationally, Pakistani expatriates like Karamat Ullah Khan of K2 Squash (Philadelphia) and Jahangir Naseem and Kaleem Khan of Play Squash Academy/ Squash Inspire (Maryland, Virginia and DC) provided crucial support to players competing abroad.

Looking Ahead: As Pakistan squash moves forward, the foundations laid in 2024 will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of players. With a robust support system, thriving national competitions, and growing international recognition, the country is well-positioned to reclaim its historic dominance in squash.

Year 2024: A stellar one for Pakistan squash