ITF-PTF Wheelchair Tennis Development Initiative Kicks Off in Lahore
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) and Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) have jointly inaugurated a comprehensive Wheelchair Tennis Development Initiative at the K21 Club in Model Town, Lahore. This significant program combines a specialized coaching camp with an extensive talent hunt, designed to scout and cultivate emerging wheelchair tennis talent across Pakistan.
Inauguration and Key Attendees
The inauguration ceremony was graced by prominent figures from the tennis community. Muhammad Khalid Rehmani, Vice President of the PTF, and Salman Karim Mughal, the Wheelchair Tennis Coordinator, were present to oversee the proceedings. The event also saw the attendance of Rashid Malik, Senior Vice President of the Punjab Lawn Tennis Association, Waseem Tai, and Ms. Naila Najam, President of the K21 Club Sports Academy. The PTF provided crucial support by supplying essential equipment, including specialized wheelchairs, tennis rackets, and balls to facilitate the participants.
Talent Hunt and Participant Demographics
A total of thirteen wheelchair players enthusiastically participated in the talent hunt, showcasing a growing interest in the sport at the grassroots level. The participants hailed from various cities, with eight players from Gujranwala, four from Lahore, and one from Faisalabad. This diverse representation underscores the expanding reach of wheelchair tennis in the region.
Selection and Development Plans
Muhammad Khalid Siddiq, a former Pakistan No.1 and Davis Cup player, served as the chief selector for the event. He meticulously evaluated the players and selected four promising talents for future development—two from Lahore and two from Gujranwala. Siddiq reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to promoting wheelchair tennis in the area, emphasizing the potential for these athletes to excel on larger stages.
Infrastructure and Expansion Initiatives
During the ceremony, Rashid Malik proposed the establishment of a dedicated wheelchair tennis center in Gujranwala and pledged his full support to facilitate its development. This initiative aims to create a permanent hub for training and competition, enhancing the sport's infrastructure.
Muhammad Khalid Rehmani outlined ambitious expansion plans, announcing that the PTF will conduct similar talent hunt programs in multiple cities throughout 2026. The scheduled locations include Peshawar, Lahore, Faisalabad, Abbottabad, Islamabad, Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, and Karachi. Selected players will benefit from structured, long-term coaching through regular training camps, with the federation continuing to provide necessary equipment and facilities at all venues.
Coaching and International Aspirations
Rehmani emphasized that consistent hard work and dedication are paramount for players aspiring to compete at the international level. To further bolster the sport's development, he revealed plans to organize "train-the-trainer" programs. These initiatives are designed to enhance the capacity and expertise of local wheelchair tennis coaches, ensuring sustainable growth and high-quality training standards across Pakistan.
This launch marks a pivotal step in fostering inclusivity and excellence in Pakistani sports, with the ITF and PTF working collaboratively to unlock the potential of wheelchair tennis athletes nationwide.
