Islamabad to Stage Two International Women’s Tournaments
Pakistan is set to host two major international women’s tennis events in 2026, marking an important milestone for the country and the Pakistan Tennis Federation.
The Pakistan Tennis Federation announced on Monday that two ITF W15 Women’s Futures tournaments will be held in Islamabad from October 5, 2026. The events will take place ahead of the Billie Jean King Cup and are expected to provide valuable international exposure to Pakistan’s female tennis players.
This will be the first time Pakistan hosts two back-to-back ITF W15 Women’s Futures tournaments. The development is being seen as a major step toward strengthening women’s tennis in the country.
The tournaments will give local players a chance to compete against international opponents at home. They will also allow Pakistani players to earn ranking points without facing the heavy travel costs usually linked with overseas competitions.
PTF Calls It a Major Step for Women’s Tennis
Pakistan Tennis Federation President Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi said the federation had already created strong opportunities for male players through ITF Men’s Futures tournaments. He said the focus was now shifting toward providing similar support to women players.
Aisam said hosting two ITF W15 events in October would help female players gain experience, improve confidence and prepare for higher-level international competition.
He added that the tournaments would also support Pakistan’s preparations for the Billie Jean King Cup. Playing competitive matches at home before the event could help local players improve their form and match readiness.
Several leading and emerging Pakistani women players are expected to benefit from the initiative. These include Ushna Suhail, Mahin Aftab, Soha Ali, Romaisa Malik, Bismal Zia, Meheq Khokhar, Zunaisha Noor, Zainab Ali Raja, Fatima Ali Raja, Laibah Durab and other rising talents.
New Platform for Future Champions
The Pakistan Women’s Tennis Association, established in 2024 by the PTF president, continues to play a key role in promoting and supporting women’s tennis in the country.
Asma Khawar Khawaja, President of the Pakistan Women Tennis Association, said the upcoming tournaments would strengthen Pakistan’s position in international tennis. She added that the events reflect the federation’s commitment to developing women’s tennis and preparing future champions.
PTF Secretary General Col Zia-ud-Din Tufail also called the back-to-back W15 events a major achievement. He said hosting such tournaments would give players meaningful international exposure while competing on home courts.
The initiative is expected to encourage more young girls to take up tennis professionally. It may also help improve Pakistan’s standing in regional and international women’s tennis.
With these events, Pakistan is taking a practical step toward building a stronger pathway for female athletes.
