MELBOURNE: In a historic victory, Pakistan’s young squash star, Hamza Khan, emerged triumphant at the World Junior Squash Championship 2023, defeating Egypt’s Mohamed Zakaria in an exhilarating final match. The championship title marks Pakistan’s first victory in the prestigious tournament since 1986.
The thrilling final, held in Melbourne, Australia, saw Hamza Khan dominate the court, securing a remarkable 3-1 victory over his formidable opponent. This achievement signifies a momentous breakthrough for Pakistan in the world of junior squash.
🎙 "Pakistani Squash is back!"
Here's the moment 🇵🇰 Hamza Khan ended Pakistan's 37-year wait for a WSF World Junior Squash Champion title 🏆#WSFjuniors @paksquash @squashAUS pic.twitter.com/h7K50hAVjH
— World Squash (WSF) (@WorldSquash) July 23, 2023
Hamza’s exceptional talent had already gained recognition when he clinched the U-15 title at the British Junior Open Squash Championship in 2020, foreshadowing his potential to excel on the international stage.
"They support me, every single time" 🙏
An emotional Hamza Khan reacts to his WSF World Junior Squash Championship win#WSFjuniors @paksquash @squashAUS pic.twitter.com/gZ94sq39k1
— World Squash (WSF) (@WorldSquash) July 23, 2023
In the wake of his momentous victory, Hamza expressed gratitude to his coach, managers, and parents for their unwavering support and guidance throughout his journey. The squash sensation’s remarkable achievement has been met with an outpouring of congratulatory messages from across the nation.
Applaud for Triumphant Hamza Khan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended Hamza Khan for his outstanding performance, conveying his appreciation for bringing the coveted title back to Pakistan after a hiatus of 37 years. He expressed hope that Hamza’s success would pave the way for Pakistan to regain its dominant position in the sport.
President Arif Alvi also extended his heartfelt congratulations, highlighting Pakistan’s unparalleled legacy of excellence in squash. He commended Hamza for rekindling the nation’s aspirations and revitalizing the sport’s future.
Pakistan had an unprecedented and yet unmatched supremacy in squash. I had personally watched many finals among our giants. After a long time a resurgent ray of hope. Well done 👋 pic.twitter.com/6KzFXIXxb0
— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) July 23, 2023
Acknowledging Hamza’s triumph, Javed Afridi, the owner of Peshawar Zalmi, announced a generous prize of Rs1 million as a token of appreciation from the Zalmi Foundation.
Hamza’s squash journey began at a young age, with a strong pedigree in the sport. His maternal uncle, former World No. 14 Shahid Zaman, and close relative, the legendary Qamar Zaman, played instrumental roles in nurturing his talent. Hamza attributed his early success to his father, Niazullah, who coached him and paved the way for his remarkable journey.
There was a time Pakistan ruled the world of Squash.
Now we have another star in the making!
Hamza Khan won the world junior squash championship, winning it for Pakistan after 37 years. Last time was Jansher Khan who won it in 1986. pic.twitter.com/SNu2gj8ZR8
— Umar Saif (@umarsaif) July 23, 2023
With his sights set on even greater accomplishments, Hamza aspires to secure major titles such as the British Open and the World Open, aspiring to bring further glory to Pakistan.
In the wake of his astounding achievement, the entire nation celebrates Hamza Khan’s triumph, hailing him as a rising star and a beacon of hope for the future of squash in Pakistan.
