Prof Sohail and Zohaib Advance to Bahawalpur Tennis Championship Finals

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Prof Sohail Iqbal, the Secretary of Divisional Tennis Bahawalpur, and his doubles partner Zohaib Raza have reached the finals of the Bahawalpur Divisional (Inter-Clubs) Lawn Tennis Championship 2024. This prestigious event took place at the Bahawal Gymkhana in Bahawalpur, where they faced a tough challenge from the Rahim Yar Khan duo, Ahmed Altaf and Malik Umair, in the open category.

Prof Sohail, often referred to as a living legend in the realm of Bahawalpur tennis, showcased his exceptional talent and experience during the match. Despite being significantly younger than his opponents, he and Zohaib managed to turn the tide in their favor after initially falling behind by three games. This comeback was a testament to Prof Sohail's belief that age is merely a number; what truly counts on the tennis court is fitness, strategy, and perseverance.

Throughout his career, Prof Sohail has played a crucial role in promoting tennis at the Bahawal Gymkhana. His unwavering support for the sport, especially in nurturing young talent, has fostered a vibrant tennis community in the region. Thanks to his efforts, the club has successfully attracted sponsors and garnered support from its members, allowing tennis to flourish in Bahawalpur.

Expressing his gratitude, Prof Sohail acknowledged the contributions of Capt (R) Fazeel Asghar, the President of the Punjab Lawn Tennis Association (PLTA). He stated, “We are extremely proud to have hosted 144 participants over four days, making this one of the largest tennis events in the region in the past 20 years. It is a testament to the growing enthusiasm for tennis in Bahawalpur.”

Looking to the future, Prof Sohail emphasized the need for ongoing development in the sport, particularly for younger players. He mentioned that Col (R) Asif Dar and Brig (R) Naeem Dar have generously committed to supporting the region by arranging professional coaches from Lahore and organizing coaching workshops for the youth. This initiative is vital for ensuring that the next generation of players has access to the necessary resources and guidance to thrive in tennis.

The journey of Prof Sohail and Zohaib to the finals of the Bahawalpur Divisional Lawn Tennis Championship is not just a personal achievement but also a reflection of the growing passion for tennis in the region. As the sport continues to develop, it is essential to nurture young talent and provide them with the tools they need to succeed. With dedicated individuals like Prof Sohail leading the way, the future of tennis in Bahawalpur looks promising.