Pakistan launches ITF Masters World Team Championships campaign as second seeds

LAHORE - Pakistan’s over-45 men’s tennis team is set to begin its campaign at the prestigious ITF Masters World Team Championships in Lisbon, Portugal, carrying high expectations after earning the tournament’s No. 2 seeding. The global event has attracted more than 30 nations and over 300 players, including some of the world’s leading Masters competitors and former professional stars, making it one of the strongest editions of the championship.Pakistan has been drawn into a challenging round-robin group alongside the United States and Canada, with the top teams progressing to the knockout stage. The opening ties are expected to play a decisive role in the race for a place in the quarterfinals.

The national squad features an experienced lineup comprising former Davis Cup stars Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and Aqeel Khan, alongside Shehryar Salamat and Hadi Hussain Rizvi. The quartet brings a wealth of international experience and an impressive record in Masters tennis, strengthening Pakistan’s hopes of making a deep run in the championship.

Ahead of the tournament, the players expressed confidence while acknowledging the quality of the opposition.”We are honoured to represent Pakistan on the world stage. Earning the second seed reflects years of hard work, but rankings mean little once competition begins. Every team has earned its place, and we are determined to compete with pride, commitment and sportsmanship,” the team said. Pakistan will open its campaign against the United States and Canada, with both encounters expected to test the team’s title credentials.The squad also acknowledged the support of its sponsors, Lama Retail, SICAS Schools, Tablevelics and Faizan Steel, as well as Pakistan’s tennis community, whose continued encouragement has played an important role in the team’s journey to the World Championships.

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