Young Pakistani tennis talents train hard under Aisam for Davis Cup Junior ties
Young Pakistani tennis talents train hard under Aisam for Davis Cup Junior ties
By Nawaz Gohar ; In the red-clay trenches of the Lahore Gymkhana Club, the future of Pakistan tennis is being forged. Under the watchful eye and seasoned mentorship of national icon Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, Pakistan’s Junior Davis Cup U16 squad has entered the final, high-intensity phase of preparation for their upcoming international assignment in Shymkent, Kazakhstan.
The national trio—Abu Bakar, Zohaib, and Usmani—are not just hitting balls; they are undergoing a masterclass in professional excellence. The training camp, designed to simulate the grueling conditions of international competition, focuses on a four-pillar strategy:
Physical Conditioning: Peak endurance for long rallies.
Tactical Depth: Strategic shot selection and court coverage.
Mental Fortitude: Cultivating a “big match” temperament.
Surface Mastery: Specialized adaptation for the Kazakhstan clay courts.
Aisam-ul-Haq, whose name is synonymous with Pakistani tennis globally, has taken a hands-on approach to this camp. Moving beyond the role of a traditional supervisor, Aisam is actively mentoring the youngsters, translating his decades of Grand Slam and Davis Cup experience into actionable advice.
“Discipline and consistency are the bedrock of international success,” Aisam remarked during a break in training. “In team events like the Davis Cup, mental strength is what separates the winners. I see immense potential in these boys; this tournament is a vital stepping stone for their professional evolution.”
Building a New Era
The atmosphere at the Gymkhana Club is one of focused ambition. Beyond the rigorous drills and tactical practice matches, the camp has emphasized team synergy. The coaching staff is working to ensure that Abu Bakar, Zohaib, and Usmani function as a cohesive unit—a critical factor in the unique pressure-cooker environment of the Davis Cup.
This intensive camp represents a broader vision for the sport in Pakistan. By bridge-lining legendary veterans with emerging teenagers, the national tennis structure is aiming for a sustainable revival.
The Road to Shymkent
As the squad prepares to fly out to Kazakhstan, the expectations are grounded yet optimistic. With the technical guidance of a world-class professional and a regimen built on grit, the Pakistani contingent is ready to make its mark on the international stage.
For these young athletes, the goal is clear: to represent the crescent and star with the same fire and grace that their mentor, Aisam, has shown the world for over two decades.
