Summary Pakistan is hosting an ITF event after a gap of nine years, in which players of 11 countries are participating. Photo: Talal Dar
By Talal Dar
ISLAMABAD – Pakistani pair Aqeel Khan and Shehzad Khan have won the ITF Future Tennis tournament in Islamabad after beating the Spanish/French duo of Pere Riba and Luka Pavlovic 7-6 (3), 7-6 (4).
The final match of Serena Hotels ITF Futures Tennis Tournament 2017 was held in Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) Complex Garden Avenue. The Pakistani pair registered their historic win against Pavlovic and Riba.
Former World No. 81 in doubles, Pere Riba has made 12 Grand Slam appearances in the past. He had defeated Aqeel Khan in the singles event, but 37-year-old Aqeel was determined to take revenge.
The Pakistani pair registered their historic win against Pavlovic and Riba. Photo: Talal Dar
This was Aqeel and Shehzad’s first ever Future doubles title. Former World No. 349 in singles, Aqeel had reached three Future finals in doubles, ending up on losing side.
Talking exclusively to dunyanews.tv, Aqeel Khan thanked the Almighty.
“It was not easy to play against players who are regular on the tour,” he said.
He also praised Shehzad Khan on the support he provided in ending Aqeel’s wait for first future doubles title.
“I would represent Pakistan as long as I can, and then I would like to start a tennis academy where I would like to groom youngsters,” the national champion of Pakistan for the last two decades told dunyanews.tv.
He also hoped that Pakistan would host more international tennis events in the future.
Pakistan is hosting an ITF event after a gap of nine years, in which players of 11 countries are participating.
