The recent Davis Cup clash between India and Pakistan in Islamabad delivered a resounding 4-0 victory for the visitors, reigniting conversations about the challenges that tennis in Pakistan currently faces. This defeat served as a stark reminder of the nation’s tennis legacy which, once adorned with stars like Haroon Rahim, now appears to be in a state of decline.
The All India Lawn Tennis Championship, initiated in 1910, was a testament to the early prowess of Muslim champions, including Rahim. However, recent performances indicate a fading glory in Pakistan’s tennis standards. Despite recent successes, such as World Group playoff qualifications in 2018 and 2019, the aging duo of Aisamul Haq and Aqeel Khan struggled against the dynamic Indian team, shedding light on management issues within the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) and a lack of structured talent identification processes. Rahim’s departure to the US in the 1970s due to the tennis federation’s indifference may have marked a turning point in Pakistan’s tennis trajectory. The failure to nurture a new generation of players and the recent Davis Cup match featuring two players over 40 indicates the urgent need for a revitalised management approach. The upcoming PTF elections on February 10th present a pivotal moment for change. A leadership focused on implementing best practices, prioritising infrastructure development and enhancing youth talent identification processes is imperative. Ultimately, reviving tennis in Pakistan demands a comprehensive strategy. This includes generating resources, garnering support from private and public sectors, providing international exposure for players, and initiating efforts to secure jobs for talented athletes.
The Davis Cup defeat serves as a wake-up call for Pakistan tennis. The path forward necessitates a committed PTF leadership that transcends player politics and favouritism. It is time to usher in a new era where merit drives the resurgence of tennis in Pakistan.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 6th, 2024.
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