Pakistani tennis legend Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi has announced his retirement from professional tennis, marking the end of a remarkable career. The announcement came at the opening ceremony of the ATP Challenger Pakistan in Islamabad on Monday night, an event Aisam described as a dream come true as president of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF).
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“I don’t know if my tears are for my career or hosting the challenger cup as president,” the visibly emotional 45-year-old said, joking to the audience on a chilly evening. The PTF called his retirement the “conclusion of an era,” adding that his legacy will continue to inspire upcoming players and grow tennis across Pakistan.
Thanks @atptour for recognizing my long tennis career and acknowledging my achievements both on and off the tennis courts @atptour Nitto finals in Turin this past weekend pic.twitter.com/SloYONHgwR
— Aisam ul Haq Qureshi (@aisamhqureshi) November 17, 2025
Turning professional in 1998, Aisam became the only Pakistani tennis player to reach a Grand Slam final, competing in both men’s and mixed doubles at the 2010 US Open. He achieved a career-high singles ranking of 125 in 2007 and a doubles ranking of 8 in 2011, alongside his longtime partner Rohan Bopanna of India. The ATP honoured him and seven other retired stars at the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin earlier this month.
Pakistan’s legendary tennis player @aisamhqureshi fought back tears as he announced his retirement at Pakistan’s first-ever ATP Challenger tournament ✨
Former world No. 8 in doubles
US Open finalist (men’s doubles & mixed doubles, 2010)
Winner of 18 ATP titles pic.twitter.com/YC6k0ttMHT— Muneeb Farrukh (@Muneeb313_) November 25, 2025
Aisam won 18 tour-level doubles titles, including two ATP Masters 1000 trophies, and remains Pakistan’s most successful Davis Cup player, helping the team reach the World Group play-offs in 2005. He also gained recognition for his humanitarian work, receiving the Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award twice and the Peace and Sport award for the ‘Stop War Start Tennis’ campaign, aimed at promoting peace between Pakistan and India.
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Among his accolades are the Pride of Pakistan Award in 2004 and the Salam Pakistan Youth Award in 2007. His final professional appearance came in a Davis Cup tie in Paraguay in September. As Pakistan bids farewell to one of its finest athletes, Aisam’s contributions on and off the court continue to leave a lasting impact on national and international tennis.