Astrid Cirotte Stuns Yodpetch in thrilling three-set final in Islamabad
By Nawaz Gohar ; France’s Astrid Cirotte staged a brilliant comeback to capture the women’s singles trophy as the second leg of the W-15 Islamabad Junaid Family Foundation World Tennis Women’s Championships 2026 reached its thrilling climax at the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) Complex.
In a captivating singles final, Cirotte shook off a first-set setback against Thailand’s Kamonwan Yodpetch to pull off a 3–6, 6–4, 6–2 victory. Yodpetch, however, did not leave empty-handed: teaming up with China’s Ru Xi Wu, the Thai star powered through a tense super tie-break in the doubles final to defeat the German-Uzbek pair of Anastasiya Kuparev and Sevil Yuldasheva 6–3, 4–6, [10–2].
Women’s Singles Final: Astrid Cirotte (FRA) def. Kamonwan Yodpetch (THA) 3–6, 6–4, 6–2.
Women’s Doubles Final: Kamonwan Yodpetch (THA) & Ru Xi Wu (CHN) def. Anastasiya Kuparev (GER) & Sevil Yuldasheva (UZB) 6–3, 4–6, [10–2]
The ITF-sanctioned tournament brought together 31 top-tier players representing 17 nations—including France, China, Denmark, Russia, Mexico, Uzbekistan, South Africa, the Netherlands, Korea, Nepal, Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, Thailand, Türkiye, the Czech Republic, and host nation Pakistan—underlining Islamabad’s growing footprint on the international circuit.
The event was sponsored by the Junaid Family Foundation, whose ongoing partnership with the PTF continues to boost the profile of women’s sports across the country.
The closing ceremony was graced by H.E. Natalie A. Baker, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Mission to Pakistan, who attended as Chief Guest alongside Guests of Honour Mr. and Mrs. Ansir Junaid, Chairman of the Junaid Family Foundation.
They were joined by PTF President Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and Secretary General Col. Zia-ud-Din Tufail in distributing trophies and cash prizes to the finalists. A special commemorative shield was also presented to former World No. 15 French star Aravane Rezaï in honor of her distinguished career and contributions to global tennis.
Diplomats, coaches, family members, and eager tennis enthusiasts packed the venue, highlighting the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the international fixture.
Extending his heartfelt congratulations to the winners, PTF President Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi lauded the efforts of all stakeholders involved. “The successful hosting of this championship is another significant milestone in our commitment to developing women’s tennis in Pakistan,
” Qureshi remarked. “Providing our local athletes with international match exposure right here at home is essential, and we are deeply grateful to the Junaid Family Foundation, Ambassador Baker, and our distinguished guests for making this vision a reality.”
