Change is possible, says Aisamul Haq

Pakistan tennis ace hopes for strong finish this season.


Natasha Raheel September 16, 2014

KARACHI: Tennis ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi looks to improve his standings after a seemingly dismal season draws to an end, saying that the remaining year may herald a positive change in his fortunes. 

With the intention of bringing about a transformation, Asiam and partner Rohan Bopanna of India will begin their ATP tour in China next week with a goal of finishing among the top eight doubles team and then playing at the World Tour Finals by the end of the year.

Aisam has had a tough season so far; he was unable to progress beyond the round of 16 at the Washington Open, ATP Masters in Canada, Cincinnati and the US Open.



“There were ups and downs,” admitted Aisam. “More downs than ups, but it’s part of the game. The beauty of tennis is that anything can change within a week. My goal remains to be among the top eight doubles teams.

“Bopanna and I are on the 13th spot right now, but we still have six major tournaments in the calendar, which means there are 4,000 points up for grabs. We’ll try our best to make the most of our opportunities.”

Aisam will be leaving for China on Saturday.

The Lahore-based player said that his highs this year were special, as he reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the first time, and also created history by winning the Davis Cup tie against the Philippines in Manila for the first time as well.

“As far as the losses this year are concerned, we were defeated by a close margin. We had our chances but weren’t able to avail them. It was unfortunate since I also had injuries. But we can still change our fortunes.”

Looking back at the Davis Cup Asia Oceania Group II final against Thailand, Aisam said that it was a difficult task as the hosts were fielding their best side, and factors like his doubles partner Aqeel Khan’s shoulder injury and humid weather conditions contributed to the defeat.

Meanwhile, the tennis ace was particularly happy with being able to address the House of Commons at Westminster in June, saying it was “a proud moment” as he was given a chance to change people’s perception of Pakistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 17th, 2014.

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COMMENTS (1)

PakSal | 9 years ago | Reply

Good luck bro!!!

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