Photo: PTF
Pakistan’s 12 & Under tennis team clinched an impressive fifth place at the ATF 12 & Under Intercontinental Team Competition 2025 in Shymkent, Kazakhstan, after defeating Thailand 2–1.
The victory was particularly sweet for Pakistan, who avenged their earlier loss to Thailand in the finals of the ATF 12 & Under Team Competition held in Singapore in August this year, said a press release.
The prestigious event featured 12 of the world’s top junior teams, including Australia, Africa (CAT), China, Chinese Taipei, South America (COSAT), Hong Kong, Kazakhstan, Korea, New Zealand, Pacific Oceania, Pakistan, and Thailand.
Before departing for Kazakhstan, the national squad underwent an intensive training camp at the PTF Complex under Captain Muhammad Abid, with physiology sessions arranged to enhance the players’ mental strength and match readiness.
Pakistan’s remarkable journey began in May 2025 in Sri Lanka, where they lifted the ATF 12 & Under South Asia Regional Team Championship after beating India in the semifinals and Indonesia in the final. The victory earned them a place in the Asian Finals held in Singapore in August, where they finished sixth — a result that secured their qualification for the intercontinental stage for the first time.
Both in Sri Lanka and Singapore, the team was led by Captain Muhammad Nameer Shamsi, who played a key role in shaping the young players. In 2024, the squad also attended a one-month training camp in Kazakhstan, which proved invaluable for their preparation for these high-level events.
Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi[1], President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF), praised the young team’s efforts.
“The Pakistan team has played outstanding tennis throughout the tournament, competing against the top junior teams from around the world. I am extremely proud of their performance and dedication. Special congratulations to the team captain Mr. Muhammad Abid for his excellent leadership,” he said.
Qureshi added that the team’s success reflected the Federation’s ongoing efforts to promote tennis across the country.
Col (R) Zia-ud-din Tufail, Secretary-General PTF, also lauded the players’ consistency and progress.
“Our team has performed consistently well throughout the tournament. We hope they will continue to develop and bring further pride to Pakistan in the future,” he said, also congratulating Captain Abid for his strong leadership.
The PTF management extended their appreciation to the team for their commendable performance and discipline throughout the international campaign.
References
- ^ Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi (tribune.com.pk)