Despite his recent transition into leadership, having been elected as the head of the national federation in 2024, Qureshi maintains that he is physically prepared for the rigors of high-level competition. A former US Open men's doubles finalist, Qureshi noted that his decision to participate stems from his continued commitment to regular training and his belief that he can still contribute effectively on the court for his country.
A Balanced Squad for Aichi-Nagoya
Qureshi will be joined by a diverse group of athletes as part of the official Pakistan tennis contingent. The squad features veteran player Aqeel Khan alongside Muhammad Shoaib and Muzammil Murtaza, while the women's team includes Maheen Aftab and Ushna Sohail. According to the federation president, this roster offers a strategic blend of seasoned experience and emerging talent, which he believes will serve the nation well throughout the multi-sport event.
In preparation for the Games, Qureshi has been training alongside his teammates, aiming to provide mentorship and guidance to the younger members of the squad. Beyond his personal participation, he emphasized that Pakistan tennis continues to make progress despite various constraints. Looking ahead to the domestic calendar, he highlighted that Pakistan is set to host a Billie Jean King Cup event in October, which will welcome competitors from 10 different nations and serve as a platform to raise awareness for breast cancer.
Transitioning from Grand Slam Success to Leadership
For many years, Qureshi served as the face of Pakistani tennis on the global stage, frequently appearing in Grand Slam doubles events and achieving significant success alongside his former partner, Rohan Bopanna. His return to the court for the Asian Games marks a unique chapter in his career, as he continues to lead the sport's development in Pakistan while remaining an active competitor.
The 2026 Asian Games will provide a significant test for the Pakistani team, with Qureshi playing a dual role as both a representative on the court and the primary administrator for the sport's national governing body. His participation underscores a continued dedication to the sport that defined his professional life before he assumed his current role as the head of the Pakistan Tennis Federation.
