PTF Reaffirms Merit-Based Selections and Discipline in National Tennis
Islamabad: The Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) has issued a strong clarification regarding recent media discussions on team selections and internal policies. The federation emphasized that all players representing Pakistan are selected purely on merit, based on clear performance benchmarks from national and international events.
PTF Senior Vice President Khawaja Suhail Iftikhar explained that the federation follows internationally recognized policies, where exemptions from selection trials are granted only to players with long-standing, proven records of success — a system also used by leading tennis nations.
He confirmed that Davis Cup trials for the recent Paraguay tie were conducted in January 2025, with evaluations covering the prior three months. Huzaifa Rehman, Muzammal Murtaza, and Ahmed Nael earned their spots through the trials, while senior players Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and Aqeel Khan were exempted under established performance-based criteria.
“Institutional integrity must always come before individual interests,” said Khawaja Suhail. “No player is above policy, and no deserving player will ever be overlooked.”
He cautioned against misinformation campaigns that, he said, undermine the federation’s progress. The PTF has signaled that disciplinary action may be taken against individuals deliberately spreading misleading narratives rather than using official communication channels.
Senator Salim Saifullah Khan, Vice President of the Asian Tennis Federation and Patron of PTF, supported the federation’s stance. He stressed that constructive feedback is always welcome through proper forums, but divisive public campaigns based on personal agendas only damage the sport.
“Pakistan tennis has made measurable progress in recent years, and continuity of governance is vital to sustain this momentum,” he said. “All stakeholders must act responsibly and promote unity.”
The wider tennis community has also urged for strict disciplinary measures against repeated violations of federation protocols, calling for respect toward institutional processes.
Reaffirming its commitment, the PTF stated it will continue to uphold transparent selection policies, structured athlete development, and disciplined governance, while appealing to players, officials, and supporters to prioritize national interest over personal differences.
