Pakistan’s rising star Muhammad Shoaib delivered the biggest upset of the tournament with a stunning victory over Sweden’s Leo Borg, ranked World No. 483, to storm into the semifinals of the Flair Travel ITF Men’s Futures M-15 (Leg-1) here at the PTF Tennis Complex on Friday.
In front of home crowd, Shoaib showcased nerves of steel and exceptional fighting spirit to overcome the higher-ranked Swede in a gripping three-set battle, winning 4-6, 6-2, 7-6(7-1).
Shoaib faced an early setback, losing the first set 4-6 despite showing flashes of aggressive baseline play. However, he bounced back strongly in the second set, raising his intensity and dominating proceedings to level the match with a convincing 6-2 scoreline.
The deciding set turned into a thrilling contest, with both players fighting point by point and holding their nerves under pressure. Shoaib displayed remarkable composure, matching Borg shot for shot and pushing the set into a tiebreak. In the decisive moments, the Pakistani star elevated his game, completely dominating the tiebreak 7-1 to seal a memorable victory.
This remarkable win not only marks one of the biggest upsets of the tournament but also highlights Shoaib’s growing potential on the international stage. Defeating a top-500 player like Borg is a significant milestone and a proud moment for Pakistan tennis.
With this sensational performance, Shoaib has booked his place in the semifinals, keeping local hopes alive and proving that he is ready to challenge the best.
In the Men’s Doubles semifinals, Pakistan witnessed a historic breakthrough as its players dominated both matches to secure a place in the final, creating history as for the first time in Pakistan tennis, all-Pakistani Players will compete in an ITF Men’s Doubles final.
Semifinal 1: Aqeel Khan and Barkatullah defeated Essa Qabazard (KUW), Darshan Suresh (MAS) 6-4, 5-7, 10-7 in a thrilling contest to reach the final.
Semifinal 2: M Abid Ali Akbar Khan and Muzammil Murtaza overcame Russia’s Alexey Dubinin, Ivan Iutkin,6-4, 6-2 to reach the final.
The President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi) expressed immense satisfaction over the outstanding performance of Pakistani players in the ongoing ITF M-15 Islamabad event, praising the players for their determination, discipline, and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.
He stated that Pakistani players have performed exceptionally well, reaching key milestones on the international stage.
“Our players are delivering excellent results in this tournament. We have four Pakistani players in the doubles final and one player in the Singles Semifinal, which reflects the steady progress of tennis in Pakistan,” he said.
He further highlighted that after nearly 30 years, Pakistani players have once again started earning ATP ranking points, calling it a significant breakthrough for the country’s tennis revival. He credited the continuous efforts of the federation, structured development programs, and close coordination with players and coaches for this positive transformation.
“The federation is fully committed to the growth of tennis in Pakistan. Our focus has always been on player development, exposure, and providing international opportunities, and today’s results are proof that our efforts are producing results,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Secretary General of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (Col. Zia-ud-Din Tufail) also congratulated all the finalists and praised the players for their outstanding performances.
He said that the federation is working consistently on the development of players at every level, from grassroots to professional circuit, and the current success is a reflection of that long-term commitment.
“The results clearly show our dedication towards player development. Pakistani tennis is moving in the right direction, and we will continue to support our players to achieve even greater success in the future,” he remarked.
Men’s Singles-Quarterfinals: Muhammad Shoaib (PAK) beat Leo Borg (SWE) 4-6, 6-2, 7-6(7-1); Nikita Ianin (RUS) beat Samir Hamza Reguig (ALG) 6-4, 3-6, 6-2; Arvid Nordquist (SWE) beat Kerem Yilmaz (TUR) 6-2, 6-3; Fanming Meng (CHN) beat Mert Naci Turker (TUR) 6-1, 1-0 (Ret.).
Men’s Doubles-semifinal: Aqeel Khan, Barkatullah Khan (PAK) beat Essa Qabazard (KUW), Darshan Suresh (MAS) 6-4, 5-7, 10-7; M.Abid Ali Akbar Khan, Muzammil Murtaza (PAK) beat Alexey Dubinin, Ivan Iutkin (RUS) ,6-4,6-2. The doubles final and singles semifinal will be played tomorrow and start at 9am.