KARACHI — Pakistan squash legend Jahangir Khan has voiced strong optimism regarding the country's potential to reclaim its lost glory in international squash. Stressing that consistent domestic circuits, high-value tournaments, and robust corporate backing are vital, the iconic former world champion believes the nation possesses the raw talent necessary to re-establish its historical dominance on the global athletic horizon.
Speaking on the ongoing development of emerging talent and competitive pathways, Jahangir highlighted that hosting regular international fixtures and lucrative domestic championships creates an environment where young players can thrive. He pointed out that providing local athletes with exposure against top-tier foreign competitors builds essential match temperament, boosts self-belief, and sharpens tactical execution. According to the legend, maintaining a continuous calendar of competitive events is the single most effective catalyst for unearthing future world-class champions.
The squash icon also underscored the indispensable role of the corporate sector in revitalizing national sports. Commending recent high-value tournaments hosted in major urban centers—such as record-setting prize purse competitions organized through provincial sports associations—he noted that financial incentives and professional prize pools make the sport increasingly attractive for youth participation. He urged other prominent corporate entities to step forward, fulfill their social responsibilities, and invest in sports infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability.
Pakistan once ruled supreme in the international squash arena for decades, producing legendary titans like Jahangir Khan himself and Jansher Khan, who dominated global rankings and championship titles. However, the sport experienced a prolonged period of decline due to administrative inconsistencies, a lack of international events hosted on home soil, and diminishing grassroots pathways. Sports analysts note that recent efforts by national and provincial federations to bring high-profile Professional Squash Association (PSA) events and international championships back to Pakistani venues mark a critical turning point for the discipline.
With a new generation of promising players steadily making their mark in international rankings and junior circuits, stakeholders are hopeful that structured reforms and increased financial backing will bear fruit. Jahangir concluded that if current promotional momentum and positive sporting activities are sustained with dedication, Pakistan will undoubtedly witness a triumphant resurgence, returning to the pinnacle of world squash.
