Pakistan to Host Major International Tennis Tournament for the First Time
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Pakistan is set to host a major international women’s tennis event for the first time, as the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) announced it will stage the Billie Jean King Cup Group III Asian Qualifying round in October.
Around 10 Asian nations are expected to take part in the Billie Jean King Cup, which officials say reflects Pakistan’s growing return to the international tennis calendar.
At a press conference, PTF president Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi said recent International Tennis Federation tournaments hosted in the country have helped improve Pakistan’s global image.
“Tennis is helping build Pakistan’s soft image, and hosting a women’s team event in October is a significant milestone,” Qureshi said.
Standing alongside PTF Secretary Colonel (retired) Zia Tufail and national players Mohammad Shoaib, Muzammil Murtaza, and Abid Ali, Qureshi pointed to rising standards in local tennis. He highlighted that Pakistani players recently won both junior and senior ITF tournaments held in the country.
He praised Shoaib for his performances in ITF Futures events, while also commending Muzammil and Abid for securing doubles titles.
Qureshi said Pakistan is increasingly being seen as a venue for international tennis, with both senior and junior players showing progress. He added that Shoaib will travel to the United States for further training, while Muzammil is set to head to South Africa.
“For the first time, nine of our players have earned rankings in the Association of Tennis Professionals, which is a matter of pride,” he said.
He also expressed disappointment over the postponed visit of former world champion Bjorn Borg, who had been scheduled to travel to Pakistan. According to Qureshi, Borg cited unavoidable circumstances but has assured he will visit in the near future.
Borg’s son, Leo Borg, recently competed in ITF Futures events in Islamabad but was knocked out in the quarterfinals.
PTF Secretary Zia Tufail said hosting consecutive international tournaments has been a major achievement, adding that such events provide valuable exposure and ranking opportunities for Pakistani players.
Meanwhile, players Muzammil, Abid, and Shoaib said their recent performances have boosted their confidence.
