Islamabad, Jan 17: In a performance that captivated tennis enthusiasts across the region, Pakistan’s tennis sensation Shayan Afridi triumphed in the ITF Asia 14 & Under Development Championship 2025 Week-1 Regional Qualifying Event. The event, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, witnessed Afridi’s masterclass as he clinched the title in a gripping final against Singapore’s second-seed, Pak Nicholas Ming En. Afridi’s tenacity and flair were on full display as he emerged victorious with a nail-biting scoreline of 6-3, 6-7(3), 6-4.
An Unforgettable Journey to Glory
Afridi’s road to glory was anything but easy. Displaying remarkable composure, he dominated the first set with a confident 6-3 win. The second set saw a fierce comeback from Pak, who edged out Afridi in a tense tiebreaker. Despite the setback, Afridi showcased extraordinary grit in the final set, reclaiming control of the match and sealing his first international championship. This monumental victory not only highlights his growing prowess on the court but also positions him as a beacon of hope for the future of tennis in Pakistan.
Celebration from Pakistan’s Sporting Community
However, Afridi’s achievement has been celebrated as a turning point for the country’s sports landscape. Muhammad Yasir Pirzada, Director General of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), commended Afridi’s victory, saying, “This win reflects the immense potential of our youth in sports.
The PSB is steadfast in its mission to nurture and elevate Pakistan’s athletes to international prominence.” Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF), echoed similar sentiments, hailing the win as a significant step forward for tennis in Pakistan. “Shayan’s victory is not just his—it’s a triumph for the entire nation. It will motivate countless young players to chase their dreams,” Qureshi remarked.
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Rising Stars in the Spotlight
Although, Afridi’s success was complemented by commendable performances from his peers. In the boys’ competition, Rashid Ali secured a respectable 12th place, while Bismal Zia and Hajra Sohail claimed 6th and 7th positions, respectively, in the girls’ category. These promising results underline Pakistan’s growing influence in junior tennis and hint at a bright future for the sport.
The Dawn of a New Era
Shayan Afridi’s breakthrough win is more than a personal milestone—it symbolizes a new chapter for Pakistan’s tennis.
With strong support from the sports community and strategic investments in talent development, Pakistan will become a tennis powerhouse.
However, Afridi’s victory is a clarion call to the global stage: Pakistan’s time in tennis has arrived.
