LAHORE - Pakistan's top ITF senior tennis player and former Davis Cupper Rashid Malik was honored at a special ceremony in recognition of receiving the prestigious Sitara-e-Imtiaz, one of the country's highest civil awards, for his outstanding contributions to tennis as a player, coach and organizer. The ceremony was hosted by prominent social and political figure Mian Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman along with his brothers Ahmad Shuja and Asad Shuja, who paid tribute to Malik's decades-long services to Pakistan tennis.
Tribute to Dedication
Speaking on the occasion, the hosts praised Malik's remarkable journey and dedication to the sport. "Rashid Malik has devoted his life to tennis, first establishing himself among the country's finest players before successfully transitioning into coaching and event management." They highlighted Malik's role in nurturing young talent and producing numerous national and international champions, while also organizing top-quality tennis events across Punjab. "Rashid Malik's contributions to the development and promotion of tennis made him a deserving recipient of the Sitara-e-Imtiaz."
The Shuja brothers also commended Malik's continued success on the international stage, noting that he remains Pakistan's top ITF senior player and continues to win titles abroad, bringing recognition to the country.
Malik's Remarks
In his remarks, Rashid Malik thanked Mian Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman and his brothers for their great support towards the growth of tennis in Punjab. He acknowledged their contributions to various tennis initiatives and their commitment to helping the sport flourish in the province. Malik also appreciated the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) for giving hosting rights of ITF Juniors to Punjab, to be conducted at the Nishtar Park Tennis Complex.
The senior tennis star praised the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and the provincial government for prioritizing sports development. "The ongoing initiatives under the leadership of Maryam Nawaz and Sports Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar are creating new opportunities for athletes and contributing significantly to the growth of sports in Punjab."
Ceremony Conclusion
The ceremony concluded with participants congratulating Malik on his distinguished achievement and assuring the all-out support of Federal and Punjab government to Punjab Lawn Tennis Association (PLTA). They also expressed confidence that Rashid Malik would continue serving Pakistan tennis in the years ahead.
