Pakistan tennis witnessed the end of an era on Monday as Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, the country’s most decorated and internationally recognised tennis star, announced his retirement from professional tennis during the inaugural ATP Challenger Cup in Islamabad.
For a nation that has rarely enjoyed visibility in the sport, Aisam’s departure is both nostalgic and celebratory.
The 45-year-old, who carried Pakistan’s flag across four continents and numerous major tournaments, reflected on a journey defined by resilience, family support, and a determination to put Pakistan on the world tennis map.
Speaking at the ceremony, Aisam-ul-Haq recalled how his dream was built step by step, long before international trophies and global recognition arrived.
“My parents were my real strength. Their belief, sacrifices, and constant encouragement shaped me into the player I became,” he said, acknowledging the cornerstone of his career.
Aisam expressed gratitude to his coaches, teammates, mentors, and Pakistan’s sports media, crediting them for their consistent support over more than two decades.
His farewell coincided with the unveiling of international and local participants for the ATP Challenger Islamabad, a symbolic overlap that highlighted both Pakistan’s progress and Aisam’s influence in elevating tennis at home. For many young athletes entering the tournament, his career has been a blueprint of what Pakistani tennis can aspire to achieve.
With his retirement, Pakistan closes the chapter on its most successful tennis export — a player who reached Grand Slam finals, broke into elite global rankings, and became a model of professionalism on and off the court.
Aisam-ul-Haq leaves behind more than titles. He leaves behind belief — the belief that a Pakistani athlete can challenge the world’s best in a sport with little infrastructure or tradition at home.
While he ends his journey as a player, his role as head of the Pakistan Tennis Federation ensures his impact will continue to benefit the country in the years ahead.