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                        <title>The Express Tribune</title>
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			<title>Won't play if Davis Cup tie against India not shifted back to Pakistan: Aisamul Haq</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2101699/wont-play-davis-cup-tie-india-not-shifted-back-pakistan-aisamul-haq</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2101699/wont-play-davis-cup-tie-india-not-shifted-back-pakistan-aisamul-haq#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 18 Nov 19 08:58:27 +0500</pubDate>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Tennis star to opt out of tie in protest if match is played anywhere else than Islamabad]]>
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				<![CDATA[Tennis star Aisamul Haq has written a letter to the president of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF), Saleem Saifullah, saying that he will opt out of the Davis Cup tie against India if the match is played on a neutral venue.

According to the details, Aisam has written that it is sad that the International Tennis Federation shifted the match out of Pakistan by citing security as the reason.

He reasoned that "thousands of Indians are roaming around in Pakistan at the Kartarpur Corridor and also in the country. No Indian has any reservations on security".

He further added: "Sri Lanka cricket team came and played in Lahore. Teams from Bangladesh have played in different cities. British royal couple visited Islamabad and Lahore. The Prime Minister of Holland is coming to Pakistan. After looking at all this, shifting the venue of the Pakistan-India match to a neutral venue is unfair."

He protested that he will not play the tie if the decision to shift it to a neutral venue is not taken back.

"I have always played to earn respect for Pakistan. This is the reason I am raising my voice against the decision."

It should be mentioned here that the Davis Cup tie between Pakistan and India was supposed to take place on November 29 in Islamabad, but the Indian Tennis Federation had reservations and so the venue was changed.]]>
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			<title>New dates announced for Pakistan-India Davis Cup tie</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2056567/new-dates-announced-pakistan-india-davis-cup-tie</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2056567/new-dates-announced-pakistan-india-davis-cup-tie#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 14 Sep 19 11:30:43 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Matches to be played at the end of November, dates to be confirmed after security evaluation]]>
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				<![CDATA[India's Davis Cup tie against Pakistan at Islamabad will begin on either November 29 or November 30, but only after the security situation is reviewed, the All India Tennis Association (AITA) said on Friday.

AITA wrote to the International Tennis Federation (ITF) last month asking them to move the tie, initially scheduled to take place on September 14-15, to a neutral venue or postpone it until political tensions simmered down between the bitter neighbours.
Pakistan-India Davis Cup tie postponed over security fears
The ITF agreed to postpone the tie to November under "exceptional circumstances" after a security review.

"The India vs Pakistan Davis Cup Tie will take place at Islamabad either on Nov. 29-30 or November 30-December 1," AITA said in a statement. "However, the security situation will be reviewed on 4th November whether the tie can be held in Islamabad or to be shifted to a neutral venue."
India expect 'positive' verdict on Davis Cup tie against Pakistan
Pakistan were forced to host Davis Cup ties at neutral venues for more than a decade as teams refused to travel to the country citing security concerns.

They played their first home tie after a gap of 12 years against Iran in 2017, while Hong Kong were relegated and fined by the ITF after they refused to travel to Pakistan the same year.]]>
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			<title>Aisamul Haq to fight Davis Cup case</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/533727/aisamul-haq-to-fight-davis-cup-case</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/533727/aisamul-haq-to-fight-davis-cup-case#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Apr 13 14:38:17 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aisam says he would meet Davis Cup officials in London to present the team's case.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis star Aisamul Haq Qureshi Wednesday said he would fight Pakistan's case after a referee's decision to award a Davis Cup tie to New Zealand because of an unplayable court surface at a neutral venue.

Qureshi, 33, the country's first player to reach a Grand Slam doubles final, was part of the squad that faced New Zealand in an Asia Oceania group II tie, which was shifted to Myanmar over security fears in Pakistan.

Pakistan were leading 1-0 on Friday and Qureshi was ahead in the second singles match when Sri Lankan referee Ashita Ajigala stopped the match and awarded the tie to New Zealand, as the courts were Pakistan's responsibility.

The Pakistan Tennis Federation had already announced it was lodging a protest with the International Tennis Federation (ITF), but Qureshi said he would meet Davis Cup officials in London to present the team's case.

"I am leaving for London and will meet Davis Cup officials on Friday to put Pakistan's case before them and I am positive of a solution as the tie was unfairly awarded against us," Qureshi told a press conference.

"It seemed the referee was not working for the ITF but for New Zealand and he was clearly partial and unjust."

The area declared unplayable was outside the lines of the court, he added.

Qureshi paired with India's Rohan Bopanna, dubbed the "Indo-Pak express", to reach the final of US Open doubles in 2010, where they lost to the American Bryan brothers.]]>
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			<title>Aisam gives us reason to celebrate</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/529546/aisam-gives-us-reason-to-celebrate</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/529546/aisam-gives-us-reason-to-celebrate#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 01 Apr 13 17:32:26 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[editorial]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=529546</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[This might be the year when Pakistan can record its name among the winners of a Grand Slam trophy.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi’s win in the doubles event of the Miami Masters came as welcome relief for fans and his country’s Davis Cup team members alike. The 33-year-old enjoyed an excellent week and, together with Dutchman Jean-Julien Rojer, grabbed the spotlight at the perfect time. With Pakistan due to play their Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group II tie against New Zealand in Myanmar from April 5, Aisam’s victory gives his side a much-needed boost and sends out a reminder that the country’s sports — and not just cricket — is very much alive and kicking.

While Pakistani sports fans got a chance to finally rejoice at a sporting victory, after they had little reason to do so following disappointing results of the national cricket team in South Africa, Aisam’s Davis Cup teammates and coach were pleased to see their trump card in form, ahead of their clash where a win would do wonders for their promotion to Group I. In addition, the grass courts in Myanmar, a neutral venue chosen for the tie against New Zealand since security conditions don’t allow for such an event to take place in Pakistan, are also well suited for our players. With a lot resting on Aisam’s shoulders ahead of the tie, his fatigue levels — after he boards a long flight to Myanmar — will have to be managed well by the team management, along with his workload. Responsibility will also have to be shared among other team members, most of whom have had little match practice.

Coming back to the triumph in Miami, it was Aisam and Rojer’s first of the year, the pair’s third together and the Pakistani’s seventh overall. It was also special since it was Aisam’s first title with the Dutch in an ATP World Tour Masters 1000 event and signals their intention of bagging a Grand Slam, something which has so far eluded the Pakistani tennis ace. With Aisam running out of time and no other contenders from the country, this might be the year when Pakistan can record its name among the winners of a Grand Slam trophy.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 2nd, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Davis Cup: Aisam wary of challenge against New Zealand</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/529188/davis-cup-aisam-wary-of-challenge-against-new-zealand</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/529188/davis-cup-aisam-wary-of-challenge-against-new-zealand#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 31 Mar 13 18:38:46 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[natasha.raheel]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=529188</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace confident of success after clinching men’s doubles title in Miami.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi’s preparation for the upcoming Davis Cup tie against New Zealand could not have been better, but the Pakistan tennis ace feels the Asia-Oceania Zone Group II tie in Myanmar will be a different ball game altogether.


Aisam clinched the doubles title in Miami with Dutch player Jean-Julien Rojer for his first ATP World Tour Masters 1000 trophy after the pair prevailed over eight-seeds Mariusz Fyrstenberg and Marcin Matkowski 6-4, 6-1.

The pair also clinched their first title of the year after earlier losing in the final of the Open 13 in Marseille, while crashing out in opening rounds at the Dubai Open and Indian Wells.

Despite the confidence-boosting win in Miami, Aisam said the Davis Cup tie posed a challenge as Pakistan eyed a promotion to Group I.

“The win in Miami has given me a lot of confidence,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “But the Davis Cup is a different ball game. It’s a switch from hard courts to grass courts. But I am looking forward to the tie against New Zealand since our players are good on grass.”

Aisam, who has booked the number 12 spot in the ATP individual doubles rankings after his win in Miami, added that his triumph has set the tone for the rest of the year.



“This sends out a reminder to other players on the ATP circuit that me and Rojer are serious contenders. Reaching the quarters and semis is a big deal and we’ve been doing that quite often. But we haven’t won that many events despite being in the last-four and this win will definitely help us.

“It’s my first ATP title of the year and also the biggest win with Rojer. It’s also my first time I’ve won a title in the first three months of a year so this is special.”

Aisam and Rojer have won two titles – the Estoril Open and Gerry Weber Open. However, a win in a 1000-series tournament is a first for the both of them.

The duo had a poor start to the season when they lost in the first round of the Australian Open, suffering the same fate in Rotterdam before making it to their first final in Marseille.

Meanwhile, Aisam said that playing their Davis Cup match on a neutral venue has increased the team’s chances against New Zealand.

The New Zealand team does not have any player among the top 50 in the ATP doubles rankings and have won two of their previous three ties against Pakistan — but both were won in Auckland. Aisam feels Pakistan should do well against New Zealand when the two teams face each other on April 5.

“New Zealand are a good Davis Cup team and I don’t know what difference my win creates. But we will try our best and hopefully get a good result.

The Pakistan Davis Cup team includes the country’s top-ranked player Aqeel Khan, Yasir Khan and Muhammad Abid along with coach Muhammad Khalid who left for Yangon on Saturday.

Aisam, who faced issues flying out of Miami, said he should be able to reach Myanmar in time for the tie.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 1st, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Aisam dedicates Miami Open trophy to Pakistan</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/529082/aisam-dedicates-miami-open-trophy-to-pakistan</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/529082/aisam-dedicates-miami-open-trophy-to-pakistan#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 31 Mar 13 07:53:29 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[natasha.raheel]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=529082</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq hopes the win brings happiness to the people of Pakistan.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistani tennis player Aisamul Haq Qureshi dedicated his first ATP Master 1000 title of the year to his country and the people, after winning the men’s doubles final at the Sony Open in Miami Saturday night.

Aisam and his dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer convincingly defeated the Polish duo Mariusz Fyrstenberg and Marcin Matkowski 6-4, 6-1 in the match.

The tennis ace, who will be in action for Pakistan in the Davis Cup tie against New Zealand in Myanmar, said that he owes the win to the people of his country and hopes that the news brought happiness to the fans back home.

“My win is for my people and for my country,” Aisam told The Express Tribune after winning the title. “I hope this win can bring some happiness and closure to the people in these tough times. I love Pakistan.”

Aisam and Rojer had defeated second seeds Marcel Granollers and Marc López 6-3, 6-2 in the semi-final on Friday.

This is Aisam’s second doubles title of the year. Earlier, he had reached the final of the Open 13 in Marseille in France, after which he saw the first round defeat in Dubai Open and Indian Wells before claiming the first title of the year.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer clinch the men's doubles title at Miami Open</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528937/aisam-rojer-clinch-the-mens-doubles-title-at-miami-open</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528937/aisam-rojer-clinch-the-mens-doubles-title-at-miami-open#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 30 Mar 13 19:59:44 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=528937</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Jean-Julien Rojer prevailed over their Polish opponents 6-4 and 6-1.]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistani Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer cruised to a win over the Polish opposition to win the men’s doubles trophy at the Miami Masters tennis tournament, Experss News reported.

Aisam and Rojer took on of Mariusz Fyrstenberg and Marcin Matkowski, both from Poland, were beaten in straight sets 6-4 and 6-1.

This was the second final of the year for Aisam and his Dutch partner had reached. To get here they overcame second-seeds Marcel Granollers and Marc López 6-3, 6-2 on Friday.]]>
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			<title>Tennis: Pakistan confident of Davis Cup win over New Zealand</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528714/tennis-pakistan-confident-of-davis-cup-win-over-new-zealand</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528714/tennis-pakistan-confident-of-davis-cup-win-over-new-zealand#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 30 Mar 13 10:29:57 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=528714</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Coach hopes Aisamul Haq will continue his latest form.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan's Davis Cup coach Mohammad Khalid Saturday said he was confident his team would win against New Zealand in their Oceania Group II match in Myanmar next week.

Pakistan have been forced to play their home ties at neutral venues since 2010, due to security fears in the country after gunmen attacked the Sri Lankan cricket team bus in March 2009.

That terrorist attack led to the suspension of all international sporting activities in Pakistan as teams refused to tour the country.

Pakistan requested the International Tennis Federation stage its tie in Myanmar, where Khalid feels grass courts will favour his players.

"Grass courts suit our players and I am confident that our team will win the tie," Khalid told AFP from Lahore, from where the team will depart on Sunday.

The tie will be played from April 5-7 and a win would give Pakistan the chance to play the group semi-final in September against the winners of the other second-round tie between Thailand and the Philippines.

Pakistan will be represented by top doubles player Aisamul Haq Qureshi, as well as Aqeel Khan, Yasir Khan and Mohammad Abid.

Khalid hopes Aisam continues his latest form, which has seen him through to Saturday's doubles final at the Sony Open in Miami, where he is partnering Dutchman Jean-Julien Rojer.

"He (Aisam) is playing well and that's a good sign for us, and besides that other players have also prepared well," said Khalid.

New Zealand beat Pakistan 3-2 in their last Davis Cup meeting in 2010.]]>
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			<title>‘Pakistan has an edge because of Aisam’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528429/pakistan-has-an-edge-because-of-aisam</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528429/pakistan-has-an-edge-because-of-aisam#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 29 Mar 13 18:49:49 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aqeel says tennis player’s run in Miami good preparation ahead of Davis Cup.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi’s performance at the Miami Masters will give Pakistan an edge, said the country’s top-ranked player Aqeel Khan, as the team leaves for Myanmar today for its Davis Cup tie against New Zealand.

Aisam reached the doubles final in Miami and Aqeel said his performance will give the team confidence and an upper hand against New Zealand in their Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group II tie that starts on April 5 in Yangon.

“The tie is taking place on a neutral venue and that works for us,” Aqeel told The Express Tribune. “Aisam and I are good players on grass courts. Add to this, Aisam is in wonderful form. This gives us a lot of confidence and I believe we have the upper hand against New Zealand.”

Pakistan lost their previous Davis Cup tie against New Zealand in Auckland in 2010 but Aqeel felt that the situation is different this time around. “We were playing on their turf back then. But this time we have an edge. Although I have never played in Myanmar, but our non-playing captain Khalid Siddiq has told us that court conditions there are extremely suitable to our style of play.”



Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka 3-2 in the first round in February and a win  against New Zealand will take them to the semi-final of Group II that will take place in September against either the Philippines or Thailand.

Aqeel, who has been training with reserved players, Yasir Khan and Muhammad Abid in Lahore, was also looking to take advantage of the tie taking place on a neutral venue.

Pakistan  have suffered due to security concerns with the International Tennis Federation (ITF) reluctant to allocate matches to be hosted by the country. However, the Pakistan Tennis Federation managed to convince the ITF on holding the tie on a neutral venue and Aqeel said the team was looking to seize the chance.

“We need to ensure that we take advantage. I’m confident because of our preparations as well. If New Zealand were better than us, they would’ve progressed to Group I. They’ve been stuck in the same group so it will be an interesting and even contest.”

Published in The Express Tribune, March 30th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Miami Masters: Aisam confident of clinching doubles title</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528420/miami-masters-aisam-confident-of-clinching-doubles-title</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528420/miami-masters-aisam-confident-of-clinching-doubles-title#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 29 Mar 13 18:45:19 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[natasha.raheel]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=528420</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace ready to feature in final with Rojer today.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi is confident of securing the doubles title with Jean-Julien Rojer at the Miami Masters as the pair gears up to play the final today.


Aisam and Rojer reached their second final of the year after they prevailed over second-seeds Marcel Granollers and Marc López 6-3, 6-2. The Pakistan-Dutch pairing put up a convincing show in the semi-final, making a strong statement after facing a string of first-round defeats at the ATP World Tour Masters 1000, Indian Wells and Dubai Open.

Aisam and Rojer had earlier featured in the final in Marseille, France in February.



“I’m confident of winning the final,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “I’ve never won any trophy in the first three months of the year. But so far, we are playing well and we are in good form. We lost a couple of tournaments before this, but I’m hoping we can carry on the momentum we have gained during the event. Defeating the second seeds was a big deal and it definitely gave us the confidence before the final.”

Meanwhile, Aisam was also hopeful of a good show in Myanmar where he will feature in Pakistan’s Davis Cup Asia-Oceania zone Group II tie against New Zealand.

“We want to take Pakistan to Group I — that’s the aim.”

Williams, Sharapova to clash in Miami final

In the women’s singles event, five-time champion Serena Williams wasted no time booking her berth in the final by steamrolling Agnieszka Radwanska 6-0, 6-3 to set up a title clash with third-seed Maria Sharapova.

Russia’s Sharapova, a four-time runner up in Miami, was equally dominant as she hammered Jelena Jankovic 6-2, 6-1 in the other semi-final.

“I am excited because I am in the final,” said Williams. “It definitely felt really good today. I kept my unforced errors rather low. I definitely didn’t start out the best. Slow and steady hopefully wins the race.”

Sharapova is in her fifth final in the quest for her first Miami title.

“It would mean so much to me,” said Sharapova. “The fans give me so much support here. I love this city. It was the first city I came to in this country when I was a little girl and I would love to win.”

In men’s action, Andy Murray reached the semi-finals by ousting Marin Cilic 6-4, 6-3.

“I played more solid as the match went on,” said Murray. “Once I got back on level terms in the first set I started to do better, so many long rallies, long points, long games.”

The Scottish second seed, who won the 2009 title and lost last year’s final, will face Richard Gasquet who surprised Czech fourth-seed Tomas Berdych 6-3, 6-3.

The other semi-final sees third-seeded Spaniard David Ferrer against 34-year-old giant-killer Tommy Haas, who shocked the world number one and two-time defending champion Novak Djokovic on Tuesday.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 30th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Aisam and Rojer march into Sony Open finals</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528282/sony-open-qureshi-and-rojer-make-way-to-finals</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/528282/sony-open-qureshi-and-rojer-make-way-to-finals#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 29 Mar 13 12:05:15 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=528282</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The final will played on Saturday, March 30.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan’s Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer marched into the finals of the Sony Open tennis championship on Friday, Express News reported. 

Aisam and his partner won against the Spanish pair of Marcel Granollers and Marc Lopez with a score of 6-3 and 6-2.

In the quarter-finals of men’s doubles category of this ATP Masters tournament, the fifth seeded Aisam-Rojer defeated the pair of Oliver Manarch of Austria and Nicolas Almagro of Spain, ranked 49 and 12 respectively, 7-6(5), 6-4.

The final will played on Saturday, March 30.

In the women’s category Maria Sharapova will battle for a place in the final against 22nd-seeded Serbian Jelena Jankovic. Former world number one Jankovic defeated Italian Roberta Vinci 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 6-3.]]>
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			<title>Group I of Davis Cup the new aim: PTF</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/516762/group-i-of-davis-cup-the-new-aim-ptf</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/516762/group-i-of-davis-cup-the-new-aim-ptf#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 06 Mar 13 21:44:37 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=516762</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Players delighted with home-tie shift to Myanmar.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[After getting approval from the International Tennis Federation (ITF) over holding Pakistan’s Davis Cup Asia-Oceania zone group II tie against New Zealand in Myanmar, the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) hopes to qualify for group I.

PTF secretary Mumtaz Yousuf said it was encouraging that the ITF finally allowed Pakistan to host their home-tie in Myanmar, where the players will have great advantage on the grass-courts.

He said that earlier the PTF was given two choices by the ITF to play the tie either in New Zealand or on a neutral venue.

“It was Aisamul Haq Qureshi’s suggestion to go for Myanmar instead of Sri Lanka,” Yousuf told The Express Tribune. “Aisam insisted that we should hold the tie in Myanmar because of the grass-courts which suit our players better, compared to Sri Lanka’s clay courts. The PTF is bearing all the expenses and the arrangement of these funds is our first priority because if we win this tie we will qualify for group I of the Asia-Oceania zone.”

Published in The Express Tribune, March 7th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Tennis: Aisam, Rojer beaten in Open 13 final</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/511991/tennis-aisam-rojer-beaten-in-open-13-final</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/511991/tennis-aisam-rojer-beaten-in-open-13-final#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 24 Feb 13 20:54:36 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=511991</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Top seeds lose to Bopanna, Fleming in straight sets.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan’s Aisamul Haq Qureshi along with Jean-Julien Rojer lost to former partner Rohan Bopanna and Britain’s Colin Fleming 6-4, 7-6 (7-3) in the men’s doubles final of the Open 13 ATP indoor 250 Championship in Marseille, France yesterday.

The top-seeded pair had earlier eased past the defending champions Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-3, 6-1 in the semi-final, but failed to overcome second seeds Bopanna and Fleming in the title decider.

“It’s always difficult to play against a friend,” Aisam told The Express Tribune.

“We met twice last year too. Now the goal is to perform well at Dubai Open and then we will go to Indian Wells. Rojer and I are playing well together; so far, so good. No match is easy at this stage as we are playing against the top players in the world.

“However, I’m excited about the year despite the defeats; it’s going to be more competitive than the last one. As a team, Rojer and I are gelling well and hopefully Dubai Open will be equally rewarding for us.”



The pair flew off to Dubai yesterday to participate in the Dubai Duty Free Championships where they will be up against Bopanna again, who will team up with Rajeev Ram in the first round.

Aisam and Rojer will be playing as second seeds in Dubai while Bopanna and Ram are unseeded. Last year, Aisam crashed out of the Dubai event in the first round.

Earlier this month, Aisam and Rojer also lost at the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

“The Davis Cup ties took a lot out of me physically. I was too tired,” said Aisam. “I was exhausted before I started the international tour to Netherlands. However, Marseilles has been very motivating and a good event for us overall. Rojer and I are working very hard to improve ourselves. We are looking for ways and strategies to play better. We are taking chances.”

Aisam’s next assignment after Dubai will be Indian Wells in the US and then he will be playing in Miami.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 25th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer ease into first final of the year</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/511681/aisam-rojer-ease-into-first-final-of-the-year</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/511681/aisam-rojer-ease-into-first-final-of-the-year#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 23 Feb 13 21:09:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[natasha.raheel]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=511681</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pak-Dutch pair defeat defending champions in straight sets.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi is looking forward to breaking his pattern as he reached his first  final of the year along with Jean-Julien Rojer at the Open 13 ATP Indoor Championship. The Pak-Dutch duo defeated defending champions Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-3, 6-1 in the semifinal in Marseille, France yesterday.


Aisam and Rojer won against the French pair in an hour and a half and will now face British-Indian pair Colin Fleming and Rohan Bopanna in the final today.

“I’m all set to break the pattern here as I’ve never won any final in the first three months of a year,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “I’ve got a really good feeling about this match because Rojer and I are in good form.

“So far, my performance in this tournament was unexpected because I was really exhausted after playing the Davis Cup.

“Then I had to play in Rotterdam where we lost, so winning the semi-final is great. Originally we had planned to take this week off, but we played the tournament and now I’m very excited to play against Bopanna too. We played against each other twice last year and it didn’t go my way. Hopefully with this match I could win my first trophy of the year.”

Aisam has played three ATP tournaments since January including the Australian Open but has failed to lift any trophy so far.

His biggest win of the season was the tie against Sri Lanka in the Davis Cup where he won the deciding singles rubber to ensure victory for Pakistan 3-2 earlier this month.

Meanwhile Aisam said that so far despite the defeats, this season was turning out to be better for him compared to last year.



“We are working very hard and winning makes a lot of difference. Last year both of us were distracted due to off-court happenings, but I’m looking forward to this year, and Open 13 has been a motivating tournament.”

Aisam will compete in the Dubai Open next week and will later on fly off to the US for Indian Wells.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 24th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>PTF eager to hold Davis Cup tie in Malaysia</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/505040/ptf-eager-to-hold-davis-cup-tie-in-malaysia</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/505040/ptf-eager-to-hold-davis-cup-tie-in-malaysia#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 09 Feb 13 21:08:01 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=505040</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan players better suited to grass courts, says secretary.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) has a week to confirm the neutral venue for Davis cup Asia-Oceania group II tie against New Zealand, as the International Tennis Federation (ITF) has refused to let Pakistan host the matches in Lahore or Islamabad due to security concerns.


According to PTF secretary Mumtaz Yousuf, the federation has a week to submit the application for the neutral venue. He said the PTF are in talks with Malaysia as grass courts suit Pakistan better.

“We want to hold the ties in Malaysia,” Yousuf told The Express Tribune. “This year we have time to avail the option of playing in a neutral venue and we are prepared for the Davis Cup ties. We know that we can’t hold the matches in Pakistan – that’s something the ITF is just not willing to approve – so we have a choice to play the ties in Malaysia, and this time around I am 90 percent sure about our success.”

Yousuf said that both of Pakistan’s key players Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Aqeel Khan have been pressing the federation to manage the Davis Cup hosting rights and insist that Pakistan can win on grass courts against New Zealand.

“We have a week to submit our request to the ITF before the window closes,” he said. “Previously they would say that we have been late in initiating the process, however this time we have made sure that we are fulfilling all the formalities. The Malaysian Tennis federation is on board with us in this.”

Pakistan played their last home-tie in 2008 and since then the team is forced to compromise their choice of surface as none of the opponents would agree on visiting Pakistan due to security concerns.

Facing a similar situation in their last tie against Lebanon this year, New Zealand ended up refusing to travel to Beirut and the tie eventually took place in Auckland.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 10th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Davis Cup: Pakistan defeat Sri Lanka 3-2 in first tie</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/502235/davis-cup-pakistan-defeat-sri-lanka-3-2-in-first-tie</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/502235/davis-cup-pakistan-defeat-sri-lanka-3-2-in-first-tie#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 04 Feb 13 05:25:36 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=502235</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aisam, Aqeel to face New Zealand in second round.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan got past the first round of the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Zone II as Aisamul Haq Qureshi won the deciding fifth rubber to Dineshkanthan Thangarajah 6-2, 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 to ensure a victory against Sri Lanka in Colombo yesterday.

Pakistan began their  campaign at the  tournament when Aqeel Khan won the first rubber against Thangarajah, but Aisam lost to the local top seed Harshana Godamanna the same day in the singles match as the result stood 1-1.

However, Pakistan picked up the pace on the second day with a win in the doubles match which Aisam and Aqeel won in more than two hours against Godamanna and Rajeev Rajapakse 3-2 as Pakistan took the lead 2-1.

But the final day spelt a  different story, as Aqeel lost the first reverse singles match to Godamanna 6-4 6-3 6-4 with Sri Lanka levelling the tie score to 2-2, which left all the responsibility to Aisam in the fifth rubber to decide the result.

According to Aqeel, the strategy was to hold up the hosts in the last match as Godamanna was the  strongest player for Sri Lanka. Therefore, Pakistan could only take advantage over a weaker link in the opponent’s team. Aisam did just that by winning the   decisive rubber in four hours and five minutes against a much younger Thangarajah.



“It was really hot and humid and the weather was certainly not on our side,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “It was a tough tie
primarily because of the heat but I’m glad we have retained our unbeaten record against Sri Lanka. This should take us ahead in our next round; hopefully we would repeat the same performance.”

Pakistan will play New Zealand – who defeated Lebanon last Saturday 5-0 in their first round tie – in the next round in April.

Pakistan have played three ties against New Zealand
previously and won only one.

According to Aqeel,  defeating the Kiwis on their home turf will be
challenging. However, the team will try their best despite being forced to play their home ties away.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 4th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Advantage Pakistan in Davis Cup tie against SL</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/501910/advantage-pakistan-in-davis-cup-tie-against-sl</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/501910/advantage-pakistan-in-davis-cup-tie-against-sl#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 02 Feb 13 19:38:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=501910</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aisam, Aqeel win doubles match to give country 2-1 lead.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Aqeel Khan won their doubles match against Harahan Godamanna and Rajeev Rajapakse 6-2, 6-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 in a two and a half hour thriller in Colombo to give Pakistan a 2-1 lead over Sri Lanka in the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Zone group II tie.


Pakistan began their first round in the Davis Cup with a win with Aqeel defeating Dineshkanthan Thangarajah, while Aisam lost against Godamanna on Friday as the score remained 1-1.

However, they picked up the pace and managed to win the all-important doubles match yesterday.

The players will go head-to-head in the reverse singles match as Aqeel will take on Godamanna and Aisam will play Thangarajah today.

“It’s going to be a crucial match and we are pinning a lot of hope on Aisam,” Aqeel told The Express Tribune from Colombo. “Godamanna is an excellent athlete, who has been their top player for a while now, so it’s going to be a tough match for me as well.

“Thangarajah is very competitive too but Aisam has a lot of experience. Not only does he have a very good technique but years of experience to back that up as well. We are trying very hard to come out as the winners here. It’s a tough surface and the level of competition is very high. We will give it our all.”

Pakistan have won all of their five previous ties against Sri Lanka. If they win, they will progress into the next round where they will face New Zealand in April.

“We just need one more win in the remaining two matches. The aim is to win for the country and progress in the Davis Cup. We have stayed in group II for too long now and it’s high time we progressed,” said Aqeel.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 3rd, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Tennis: Pakistan, Sri Lanka tied at 1-1 in Davis Cup</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/501444/tennis-pakistan-sri-lanka-tied-at-1-1-in-davis-cup</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/501444/tennis-pakistan-sri-lanka-tied-at-1-1-in-davis-cup#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 02 Feb 13 07:31:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=501444</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aisam, Aqeel to play crucial doubles match in Colombo today.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan had a mixed day in their Davis Cup Asia-Oceania zone group II campaign against Sri Lanka yesterday as Aqeel Khan registered a win but there was disappointment for Aisamul Haq Qureshi.


Aqeel was given the win against Dineshkanthan Thangarajah 4-6, 6-1, 4-2 as the later retired due to exhaustion, while Aisam lost to Harshana Godamanna 7-6(3), 5-7, 7-6(3).

With the tie level at 1-1, the Pakistan duo will play their doubles match against Godamanna and Rajeev Rajapakse today hoping to gain an advantage in the five-match tie before the reverse single fixtures.

Pakistan have never lost to Sri Lanka in the Davis Cup and Aqeel hopes they can continue the winning run against their Asian counterparts.

“Sri Lankan players are very competitive and extremely difficult to beat, especially on home courts,” Aqeel told The Express Tribune. “I had a slight advantage though. I believe that I won the match because I played in Sri Lanka for two months with these players last year so I know their game well. Also, my opponent just got tired and conceded the match.

“Our record against Sri Lanka is very impressive. We have previously beaten them fairly comfortably, but they are improving as well. It won’t be easy this time around.”

Aqeel also had words of praise for his partner Aisam who lost a tightly-fought match.

“Aisam played very well today and he put up a good fight, but again red clay is something all of us Pakistanis struggle with and that’s what happened in the match today.

“For us, the deciding factor in this tie will be the doubles match. If we win that I’m sure we will get the edge over the hosts. We will progress into the next round. We always get past the first round so I’m hoping for the best.”

Pakistan’s last tie with Sri Lanka was in 1993, when they won 4-1 on grass in Lahore.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 2nd, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Australian Open: Aisam-Rojer crash out in 3rd round</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/496638/australian-open-aisam-rojer-crash-out-in-3rd-round</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/496638/australian-open-aisam-rojer-crash-out-in-3rd-round#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 20 Jan 13 23:41:50 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[natasha.raheel]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=496638</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Djokovic edges past Wawrinka in epic five-setter.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer crashed out of the third round of the Australian Open after defeat to Thomas Bellucci and Benoît Paire 6-7, 6-3, 7-6 in Sydney yesterday.

The duo got off to a good start, winning the first set 7-6 on a tie-breaker. But Bellucci and Paire bounced back in the second set 6-3 and booked their place in the last-eight after a hard-fought third set 7-6.

“It was a tough match but we tried our best,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “It’s a very competitive sport and I just want the other players to take us like a threat in these events. We have our rankings in place and we will be improving as the year progresses.”

Aisam’s next assignment is to play for Pakistan in the Davis Cup tie against Sri Lanka starting on February 1.

“The goal is to get Pakistan in the group I of the Asia-Oceania zone. We’ve stayed in the second tier for too long now. We want the federation to play an active role in holding the Davis Cup ties at home as that changes everything and increases our chances to win.”

Djokovic survives scare from Wawrinka

Meanwhile, defending champion Novak Djokovic survived an early onslaught and a late fightback from Stanislas Wawrinka in a pulsating fourth-round clash to advance to the quarter-finals.

Djokovic clinched a tense 1-6, 7-5, 6-4, 6-7, 12-10 victory on his third match point in five hours two minutes.

The world number one, seeking to become the first man in the professional era to win three successive Australian Open titles, will now meet fifth seed Tomas Berdych in the quarter-finals.

Elsewhere, David Ferrer was faultless as he dispatched Kei Nishikori 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 to set up an all-Spanish last-eight clash with Nicolas Almagro.

Sharapova shatters record on way to last eight

In the women’s singles event, Maria Sharapova enjoyed the smoothest passage to the Australian Open quarter-finals in history.

The world number two clocked up her fifth 6-0 set score of the first week as she blitzed Kirsten Flipkens 6-1, 6-0 to reach the quarters for the loss of just five games, smashing the tournament record.

The four-time Grand Slam winner said her thoughts never strayed beyond her next opponent, in this case fellow Russian Ekaterina Makerova.

“It’s not about waiting to see where you are in the semis or finals, it’s about who’s ahead of you,” said Sharapova. “And my next match is against Makarova. I have to do the right things to beat her.”

In other matches Li Na beat Julia Goerges 7-6 (8/6), 6-1 while Agnieszka Radwanska downed Ana Ivanovic 6-2, 6-4. (WITH ADDITIONAL INPUT FROM AFP)

Published in The Express Tribune, January 21st, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Tennis Master’s Cup: Aqeel sets up final showdown with Yasir</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/496366/tennis-masters-cup-aqeel-sets-up-final-showdown-with-yasir</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/496366/tennis-masters-cup-aqeel-sets-up-final-showdown-with-yasir#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 19 Jan 13 20:02:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[natasha.raheel]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=496366</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan’s top-seeded duo to clash in Islamabad today.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The final of Pakistan Tennis Federation’s (PTF) inaugural Master’s Cup will see two of the country’s top players – Aqeel Khan and Yasir Khan – clash in Islamabad today.


Aqeel overcame Mohammad Abid 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 in the semi-final, while Yasir outplayed Pakistan number three Jalil Khan 6-2, 6-3 to book a place in the final.

The 23-year-old Yasir, ranked number two in the PTF rankings after Aqeel, is confident of beating his elder brother when they take on each other in the final today.

“I haven’t lost any match since my tour of Spain and Qatar in October,” Yasir told The Express Tribune. “I’m performing well and I just hope that I continue this good momentum in the final as well.”

Yasir said that the Master’s Cup was a good initiative and will encourage local talent to vie for top honours in the sport in Pakistan.

He added that the tournament served as an ideal platform to prepare for next month’s Davis Cup tie against Sri Lanka that will start from February 1. The national camp will begin tomorrow with Aqeel, Yasir and Abid while Aisamul Haq Qureshi will join the team in Colombo after the Australian Open.

“We needed more matches to practise and this was a good exercise right before the national camp. For us, it was the perfect preparation ahead of the Davis Cup tie with Sri Lanka.”

Meanwhile, Aqeel also agreed that the tournament had helped them in preparing for the Davis Cup.

“It was ideal, especially for younger players like Abid,” said Aqeel. “They benefitted more, since they do not get enough exposure by playing abroad and they have to depend on local tournaments to improve their game.”

Published in The Express Tribune, January 20th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Australian Open: Federer detonates Tomic campaign</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/496356/australian-open-federer-detonates-tomic-campaign</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/496356/australian-open-federer-detonates-tomic-campaign#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 19 Jan 13 19:35:19 +0500</pubDate>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Swiss maestro overcomes Aussie teenager in straight sets, Del Petro suffers shock.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Swiss great Roger Federer put big-talking Australian Bernard Tomic firmly in his place yesterday, as he joined Andy Murray and Serena Williams in the second week of the Australian Open.


The revered 17-time Grand Slam-winner swept to a straight-sets win, after coming through a tight second-set tie-break, 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-1. Federer will now face Canada’s Milos Raonic in the fourth round as he continues his bid for a fifth Australian Open crown.

“Overall we both played a great match,” said Federer. “Bernard has had a great run and he really got the best out of me tonight.”

In the most competitive day so far, Murray extended his Grand Slam winning streak to 10 matches, but not before a thorough workout from hitting partner Ricardas Berankis, and he let his frustrations show in the 6-3, 6-4, 7-5 win.

“I was struggling,” said Murray. “He (Berankis) was making me feel frustrated.”

Elsewhere, Argentina’s Juan Martin Del Potro became the tournament’s biggest casualty when he slumped to a five-set defeat to unseeded Frenchman Jeremy Chardy 6-3, 6-3, 6-7 (3/7), 3-6, 6-3.



Azarenka struggles into fourth round

Meanwhile, defending champion Victoria Azarenka was made to work hard and play ‘ugly’ to stay in the tournament. The Belarusian came through the match against American Jamie Hampton in three sets, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2, to set up a clash with unseeded Russian Elena Vesnina.

“I don’t think it was the best performance,” said Azarenka. “These kinds of matches sometimes bring better things for you in the future, because winning ugly always means that you overcame something.”

In other matches, five-time champion Williams powered past Japan’s Ayumi Morita 6-1, 6-3.

“I was really focused out there,” said Williams, who now faces 14th-seeded Russian Maria Kirilenko,  “Ayumi played well and gave me a good test.”

Aisam-Sofia crash out of mixed-doubles

Meanwhile, in the mixed-doubles event, there was disappointment for Pakistan ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and partner Sofia Arvidsson as they lost their first round match against second-seeded duo Leander Paes and Elena Vesnina 6-7, 6-4.

Aisam will now hope for a change in fortunes in the men’s doubles event when he and Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer take on Thomaz Bellucci and Benoit Paire in the third round today.

The duo beat Belgians Xavier Malisse and Dick Norman 7-6 (5), 6-4 yesterday in the second round.

A Murray



“I was definitely struggling. He (Berankis) was making me feel pretty frustrated. We know each other well and we have practised together. He was making me feel pretty uncomfortable out there.”

V Azarenka



“I don’t think it was the best performance. These kinds of matches sometimes bring better things for you in the future, because winning ugly always means that you overcame something. So I take it as a positive at the end of the day.”

Published in The Express Tribune, January 20th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Australian Open: Aisam, Rojer storm into  third round</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/495826/australian-oopen-aisam-rojer-storm-into-third-round</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/495826/australian-oopen-aisam-rojer-storm-into-third-round#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 19 Jan 13 00:17:10 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=495826</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Straight sets victory for sixth seeds in Australian Open.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[It was yet another rewarding effort by Pakistan tennis ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer in the second round of the Australian Open where they beat Belgians Xavier Malisse and Dick Norman 7-6 (5), 6-4 yesterday.

The sixth seeds booked their place in the third round after a grueling one hour and 33 minutes. They had started the event’s campaign by securing a first-round win over David Goffman and Simon Stadler with an impressive 6-3, 6-1.

Meanwhile, a rampant Maria Sharapova blitzed Venus Williams as she led a parade of top women’s seeds into the fourth round.

The Russian second-seed, who crushed the veteran American 6-1, 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena, now has now won 36 of the 40 games she has played at the opening Grand Slam of the season. None of the top names were troubled as Agnieszka Radwanska, Angelique Kerber and Li Na all progressed forward.

“We know each other’s games very well,” said Sharapova. “A lot of it is about executing from our own sides. I thought I did a good job of what I had in my head and what I wanted to accomplish out there today.”



Williams, seeded 25, made her way back from injury and illness, but was completely outplayed.

While Sharapova looked unbeatable, Poland’s Radwanska also proved too strong for Britain’s Heather Watson in an one-sided match, 6-3, 6-1, while fifth-seed Kerber overcame young American Madison Keys 6-2, 7-5.

Djokovic on track to
defend title

In the men’s singles event, Novak Djokovic remained on track to defend his Australian Open title with another dominant win to reach the fourth round.

World number one Djokovic was untroubled as he served his way into the last 16 with a straight sets win over never-say-die Czech Radek Stepanek.

The two-time defending champion Djokovic, bidding for his fourth Australian crown, didn’t allow Stepanek much of a chance as he completed a 6-4, 6-3, 7-5 victory in an entertaining two hour 22 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

“Radek loves the big stage,” said Djokovic. “You saw how much fun he had. I also had a lot of fun playing. It was a very entertaining match. It was three close sets. I felt that I had much more chances on his serve than he had on my serve.”

Elsewhere, fifth-seed Tomas Berdych beat Austrian Jurgen Melzer 6-3, 6-2, 6-2, while Japan’s Nishikori kept on the winning trail for a 7-6 (3), 6-2, 6-3 victory over Russian Evgeny Donskoy.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 19th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Australian Open: Tomic aims to derail Federer</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/495410/australian-open-tomic-aims-to-derail-federer</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/495410/australian-open-tomic-aims-to-derail-federer#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jan 13 20:26:20 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=495410</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Home favourite to take on 17-time Grand Slam winner in 3rd round.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Roger Federer set up an intriguing clash with young Australian Bernard Tomic as title-rival Andy Murray booked a straightforward passage into the Australian Open third round on Thursday.

The record 17-time Grand Slam champion had few problems with Russia’s Nikolay Davydenko, winning 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in one hour and 59 minutes in a night match on Rod Laver Arena.

“I have so much more experience than him (Tomic),” said Federer.

“Last year I reached my 1,000th match on tour and I know how hard a five-setter match can be. I know how intense a night session can be. I’ve been there before. That could potentially help me, but it could also work against me. We’ll see how it goes.”

Meanwhile, British third-seed and reigning US Open champion Murray was impressive in conceding just eight games as he put away 100th-ranked Portuguese Joao Sousa, 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 in one hour and 41 minutes on Hisense Arena. Murray, twice a runner-up at the Australian Open, will have his hitting partner, Lithuanian qualifier Ricardas Berankis, as his next opponent in the last-32.



In another match, Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, a runner-up here five years ago, was made to toil hard in the heat for his 6-3, 7-6 (7/1), 6-3 win over Japan’s 73rd-ranked Go Soeda in 2 hours and 3 minutes on Margaret Court Arena.

Serena, Azarenka through with easy wins

Defending champion Victoria Azarenka conceded just one game in a lopsided second-round romp at the Australian Open Thursday, while Serena Williams shook off an ankle injury to progress.

A pumped-up Azarenka said her game was exactly where she wanted it after crushing Greece’s Eleni Daniilidou 6-1, 6-0.

“I felt really good during the match today, I enjoyed a lot the way I remained focused throughout,” said Azarenka. “I definitely stepped it up from my performance in the first match, and I was in the zone trying to execute all the shots in my locker. I was trying to make everything happen on court, and that’s what I’m happy about.”

Azarenka next faces American Jamie Hampton, who sent Thai qualifier Luksika Kumkhum packing 6-1, 6-2, and said she felt in good touch. She was followed onto the Rod Laver Arena on a scorching hot day by Williams, with all eyes on her condition after a nasty roll of the right ankle in her first-round match.



But the American third-seed, looking for a sixth Australian title, was moving freely in a solid 6-2, 6-0 workout against Spanish teenager Garbine Muguruza. The 15-time Grand Slam winner next plays Japan’s Ayumi Morita, who beat German Annika Beck 6-2, 6-0.

Aisam-Rojer set to battle Belgian pair

Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer will take on Belgium’s unseeded Xavier Malisse and Dick Norman in the second round of the men’s doubles in the Australian Open today.

The sixth-seeds won their first round of the event by defeating David Goffman and Simon Stadler 6-3, 6-1 on Wednesday. Aisam’s immediate aim is to reach the quarter-finals of the Australian Open, the only Grand Slam where he has been unable to reach the last-eight. The last two years saw him crash out of the round-of-16.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 18th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Australian Open: Aisam, Rojer cruise into 2nd round</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/494956/australian-open-aisam-rojer-cruise-into-2nd-round</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/494956/australian-open-aisam-rojer-cruise-into-2nd-round#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jan 13 20:07:11 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pak-Dutch pair won in straight sets yesterday.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean Julien Rojer, the six-seeded pair, cruised into the second round of the Australian Open with a 6-3, 6-1 win over David Goffin and Simon Stadler yesterday.

Aisam and Rojer had a poor start to the year when they crashed out of the Apia International Sydney in the first round but the straight-sets win will give them a timely boost ahead of the crunch matches.

In another match, a dominant Maria Sharapova routed young Japanese Misaki Doi 6-0, 6-0 to book a third-round clash with seven-time Grand Slam winner Venus Williams. Venus, who disposed of France’s Alize Cornet 6-3, 6-3, has been battling injury and illness in the past two years and her ranking has dropped.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic oozed class in an outstanding performance as he wasted little time in dispatching America’s Ryan Harrison 6-1, 6-2, 6-3.

Radwanska builds on season wins 

Elsewhere, fourth-seed Agnieszka Radwanska built on her sizzling start to the season to progress.

Radwanska stormed to her 11th straight victory of the year as she beat Irina-Camelia Begu 6-3, 6-3 and now faces Britain’s Heather Watson.

David Ferrer was stretched to four sets and five match points before finally clinching a 6-0, 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 win in two hours 38min on Margaret Court Arena. Tomas Berdych, coming off the Czech Republic’s Davis Cup victory over Spain in Prague last November, was too strong for the 92nd-ranked Rufin, winning 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 in exactly two hours.

“I had to work hard to win in three sets,” said Berdych. “It was a better match for me from the first round and that’s what I always like to do — improve.”

Published in The Express Tribune, January 17th, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Tennis players unhappy with PTF secretary</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/487084/tennis-players-unhappy-with-ptf-secretary</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/487084/tennis-players-unhappy-with-ptf-secretary#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 31 Dec 12 18:32:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=487084</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Official blamed for players missing out on Asian Championship.]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Top tennis players including Aqeel Khan demanded changes in the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) administration as they missed out on the opportunity of competing in the Asian Championship at Thailand in December.

The players said PTF secretary Mumtaz Yousuf should be changed as he is seldom available in Islamabad and the players hardly get a response when they try to communicate with him.

Aqeel, who was preparing for the championship for two months, said PTF needs to take concrete steps in order to avoid errors arising from miscommunication.

Other participants included Ahmed Chaudhry, Yasir Khan and Abid Mushtaq but none were able to go as the secretary failed to issue the relevant papers that were required for their visa.

“It’s about time the PTF gets a new team,” Aqeel told The Express Tribune. “We have no problems with the president Kaleem Imam, he understands our situation and is willing to help the players; but his team is lazy.

“Yasir, Mushtaq and I missed out on a great opportunity at the Asian Championship. Our next Davis Cup tie is with Sri Lanka in February and the Thailand event would have helped us a great deal with our practice. But the PTF secretary’s negligence cost us the chance. This needs to change.”

He further said Imam was not informed about the situation by Yousuf.

His contemporary Mushtaq – who has been named for the Davis Cup squad for February along with Aisamul Haq Qureshi, Aqeel and Yasir – agreed that the secretary failed to fulfill his responsibility.

When contacted, Yousuf denied the allegations saying that he has always been active and played his role in facilitating the players. He said that the players missed out on the Asian Championship because of their own fault as they submitted their visa application after the deadline of December 1. He further said the federation was not to be blamed.

“We need our players to participate in international events,” said Yousuf. “It’s unfair that my abilities as the secretary of the PTF are being doubted. I have always been prompt in responding to the players’ problems. I cannot be blamed for faults perpetrated by their own shortcomings.”

Published in The Express Tribune, January 1st, 2013.]]>
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			<title>Aisam sets next year’s targets after London failure</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/464174/aisam-sets-next-years-targets-after-london-failure</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/464174/aisam-sets-next-years-targets-after-london-failure#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 11 Nov 12 18:27:33 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[natasha.raheel]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=464174</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace and Rojer lose all round-robin games at ATP World Tour Finals.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi is looking forward to the 2013 season after his London campaign with Dutch partner Jean-Julean Rojer ended in a straights-sets defeat at the ATP World Tour Finals on Saturday.

The duo, making their team debut at the competition, lost to Spaniards Marc Lopez and Marcel Granollers 6-4, 6-2, making it three defeats in three matches in London.

Aisam is now looking forward to the next season and wants to put behind him the disappointments of 2012, a year that also saw him miss out on a place at the Olympics.

“It’s been a roller-coaster ride,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “We qualified for this event a week ago in Paris. There was a lot of pressure on us.

“However, we stood strong but unfortunately we had a tough group and were up against more experienced teams. But I take it as an achievement to be the only Pakistani to appear in the tournament two years in a row. The year was more about overcoming personal and individual drawbacks than the professional ones. The year wasn’t great, but it was satisfactory.”

Aisam’s next assignment is a tournament in Cambodia, ahead of the Australia Open, that starts on December 10. The Pakistan tennis ace was hopeful of using the event to get back in form and strategise for the year ahead.

“The aim is to start the year with victories. I really didn’t like the way we qualified for the ATP World tour this time. Rojer and I want to start 2013 by winning more trophies and at least a grand slam.”

The Pakistani added that he aims to represent Pakistan at the Davis Cup in February against Sri Lanka.

“The others goals for next year include playing Davis Cup for Pakistan against Sri Lanka. I’ll be working hard on getting Pakistan in the Asian-Oceania group and will also pursue the Pakistan Tennis Federation for hosting the ties in the country.”

Aisam will return to Pakistan on November 15 before the pre-season matches in Cambodia.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 12th, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer’s semis hopes end</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/463396/aisam-rojers-semis-hopes-end</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/463396/aisam-rojers-semis-hopes-end#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 09 Nov 12 17:26:12 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=463396</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Doubes pair loses second successive match at ATP World Tour Finals.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer’s semi-final hopes vanished after the doubles pair suffered their second successive defeat at the ATP World Tour finals. The pair lost to long-time nemesis Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan of the US.

Aisam and Rojer were beaten by the top seeds 7-5, 6-4 in their second round-robin match on Thursday. They had lost their first match to India’s Leander Paes and Czech Radek Sepanek 6-4, 7-5 and are now placed last in their group.

The pair will now play Spanish duo Marcel Granollers and Marc Lopez today.

Meanwhile in the singles match yesterday, Novak Djokovic advanced to the semi-finals with a 100 % record as the world number one defeated Czech fifth-seed Tomas Berdych 6-2, 7-6 (8/6) .

In another doubles match, India’s Rohan Bopanna and Mahesh Bhupathi qualified for the semi-finals after they prevailed over Max Mirnyi and Daniel Nestor.

The fifth seeds beat Mirnyi and Nestor 7-6 (5), 6-7 (5), 10-5.

In the singles event, Argentina’s Juan Martin del Potro was delighted with his 6-0, 6-4 win over Serbian eighth-seed Janko Tipsarevic.

The sixth seed still needs a win against Roger Federer in his final group match today to reach the last four.

“It’s not easy to win a set 6-0,” said Del Potro. “Janko was fighting. I have to step up against Federer. I’m back in the top 10 and I want to enjoy this week.” (With additional information from AFP)

Published in The Express Tribune, November 10th, 2012.

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			<title>Aisam, Rojer crash out of ATP finals</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/463151/aisam-rojer-crash-out-of-atp-finals</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/463151/aisam-rojer-crash-out-of-atp-finals#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 08 Nov 12 22:38:38 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=463151</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Qureshi and Rojer lost both sets of the match to the American duo 7-5, 6-4.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis top seed Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer were knocked out of the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals doubles series in London, UK after losing to the Bryan brothers on Friday.

Qureshi and Rojer lost both sets of the match to the American duo 7-5, 6-4.

They now have a 32-23 record for this season, highlighted by two ATP World Tour titles at the Estoril Open and Gerry Weber Open. The Pakistani-Dutch duo had lost their first match in the ATP finals to India's Leander Paes and his Czech partner Radek Stepanek 4-6, 5-7 on Tuesday.

Paes and Stepanek reach semis

Paes and Stepanek clinch their place in the semi-finals round of the ATP Tour Finals after their win against Spanish couple Marcel Granollers and Marc Lopez 7-5, 6-4. They were pushed hard by the sixth seeds in a match lasting one hour and 31 minutes, twice having to come from a break down in the second set before eventually sprinting to the finish line with a barrage of winners.

Paes and Stepanek, who now have a dead rubber in their final match against top seeds Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan, are making their first appearance together at the Tour Finals as they bid to end the Indian's nightmare run in the final of the season-ending event.

Former doubles world number one Paes has been runner-up on four occasions, in 1997, 1999 and 2000 with compatriot Mahesh Bhupathi, and then in 2005 with Serbia's Nenad Zimonjic.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer off to a faltering start in ATP World Tour finals</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/461976/aisam-rojer-off-to-a-faltering-start-in-atp-world-tour-finals</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/461976/aisam-rojer-off-to-a-faltering-start-in-atp-world-tour-finals#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 06 Nov 12 20:27:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=461976</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Aisam-Rojer lost to Indian Leander Paes and Czech Radek Sepanek 6-4, 7-5 in their group A match.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Jean-Julien Rojer lost the first of their ATP World Tour Finals group A doubles matches on Tuesday.

The Pakistan-Dutch duo playing against Indian Leander Paes and Czech Radek Sepanek, fought two hard sets before going down 6-4, 7-5.

Aisam and Rojer seemed to be out matched by their opponents who won 44 of their 60 service points and 20 of their 58 return points in a match that lasted over 93 minutes.

In the group B doubles match of the day Dane Frederik Nielsen and English Jonathan Marray beat Indian duo of Mahesh Bhupatti and Rohan Bopanna 6-4, 6-7 (1), 12-10.

You can watch a slideshow of pictures from Aisam's match here.

Bhupatti and Bopanna, who came fresh off winning the Paris Masters doubles final against the duo of Aisam and Rojer over the weekend, pushed their opponents to the brink. Having lost the first set, they came back strong for the second but did not have enough to tip the game in their favour in the third and final set.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer lose Paris Masters final</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/460781/aisam-rojer-lose-paris-masters-final</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/460781/aisam-rojer-lose-paris-masters-final#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 04 Nov 12 20:03:48 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[natasha.raheel]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=460781</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Duo downed in straight sets by Bopanna, Bhupatti; Ferrer wins singles title.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julian Rojer were defeated by the Indian pairing of Rohan Bopanna and Mahesh Bhupatti 7-6, 6-3 in the doubles final of the Paris Masters yesterday.


The Indian duo only took an hour and 26 minutes to seal the match and win their second Masters title of the year.

Despite the defeat, Aisam expressed satisfaction and said that qualifying for the ATP World Tour was his main aim. Aisam will participate in the ATP World Tour for the second time in a row, which he believes is his biggest achievement of the year.

“Making it to the London Masters was my aim for the year and I have achieved it,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “It’s my second year in the ATP London Masters. The top eight teams are competing and I have proved my worth. It was with Bopanna last year and this time around Rojer will get to play his first World Tour so I am excited for both of us.”

Aisam and Rojer will make their team debut as the sixth seeds in the tournament.

In the singles final, David Ferrer downed Jerzy Janowicz 6-4, 6-3 to claim the title.

Murray eyes Tour Finals win to cap glorious year

Meanwhile, Andy Murray has set his sights on capping a glorious year by winning the season-ending ATP World Tour Finals at London’s O2 Arena.

Murray will return to play in front of a British audience for the first time since his US Open breakthrough and he is keen win one more title.

“There’s always pressure at all of the major tournaments you play but I feel a little bit more relaxed coming in this year than I have in previous years because I managed to win the US Open,” said Murray. “The only thing I can guarantee is that I’ll give 110 percent on the court and fight as hard as I can until the end of all the matches and see where that gets me. Against all the guys here you’re going to have to play a top-quality match to win.”

The tournament usually features the top eight players in the world rankings, although reigning French Open champion Rafael Nadal is continuing his recovery from a knee injury, handing Serbia’s Janko Tipsarevic a place in the draw.

Murray is in Group A along with Djokovic, Tomas Berdych and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, and it is Berdych who will be Murray’s first opponent today.

Defending champion Federer, who will lose the number one ranking to Djokovic today, takes on Tipsarevic, Spain’s David Ferrer and former US Open champion Juan Martin del Potro in Group B. (WITH ADDITIONAL INFO FROM AFP)

Murray

“The only thing I can guarantee is that I’ll give 110 percent on the court, fight as hard as I can until the end of all the matches and see where that gets me.”

Aisam

“Making it to the London Masters was my aim for the year and I have achieved it. This is the first time I will play the tournament with Rojer, so I am excited for both of us.”

Published in The Express Tribune, November 5th, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer edge closer to glory</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/460330/aisam-rojer-edge-closer-to-glory</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/460330/aisam-rojer-edge-closer-to-glory#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 03 Nov 12 18:03:11 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=460330</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Doubles pair storm into Paris Masters final.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer stormed into the final of the Paris Masters doubles event after defeating Marin Cilic and Marcelo Melo 0-6, 6-4, 11-9 in the semi-final yesterday.


The seventh seeds fought back after being demolished in the first set where they could not win a single game. The duo now faces India’s pairing of Mahesh Bhupatti and Rohan Bopanna, Aisam’s former doubles partner, in the final after the fifth seeds got rid of Mariusz Fyrstenberg and Marcin Matkowski 6-7 (5) 6-3 10-4.

Tsonga suffers upset

Meanwhile in the singles draw, there was disappointment for Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga as he lost to Spanish fourth-seed David Ferrer 6-2, 7-5.

Tsonga went down after saving two match points as Ferrer, winner of his sixth title of the season last week in Valencia, advanced in 80 minutes.

“I lost, and, well, I won’t have much time, anyway, because I will be in London and Monday I will be on the court, I guess,” said Tsonga. “So if I had played a bit more here, it wouldn’t have changed things much.”

Ferrer, who did not face a single break point, raced through the first set and although the sixth-seeded Frenchman increased the pressure in the second, Tsonga was too sloppy to seriously trouble his opponent. Tsonga was 0-40 down in the 12th game. He saved two match points with decent first serves but then sent a routine forehand wide on the third.

The Frenchman heads to London having failed to beat any player from the world’s top eight all year.

“It’s complicated to play at Bercy just before the Tour Finals but I wanted to win the tournament once more,” he said. “As soon as tomorrow I’ll be on court in London to practice.”

Murray, Djokovic drawn together at ATP Tour Finals

Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic will continue their career-long rivalry at the ATP World  Tour Finals after being drawn in the same group for the season-ender in London’s Docklands next week.

The draw paired Murray in Group A with the man he beat in a Flushing Meadows epic to claim his first grand slam title at the US Open in September. As well as Djokovic, who will end the year as the world number one for the second year running, home favourite Murray will also be up against Tomas Berdych and last year’s beaten finalist Tsonga.

Group B, the easier looking of the two, will feature defending champion and 17-times grand slam winner Roger Federer, Spain’s David Ferrer, Serbia’s Janko Tipsarevic and Argentina’s Juan Martin del Potro.

World number four Rafael Nadal is the only one of the top eight missing from the eight-day tournament that starts tomorrow. He has been out of action since June with a knee injury. London’s O2 Arena is hosting the tournament for the fourth consecutive year.

View a slideshow of pictures from the match here.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 4th, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer march into Paris Masters final</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/460246/aisam-rojer-march-into-paris-masters-final</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/460246/aisam-rojer-march-into-paris-masters-final#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 03 Nov 12 14:38:29 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=460246</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The Pakistan and Duthc duo defeats Cilic and Melo to move on to the Paris Masters finals.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistani tennis star Aisamul Haq and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer beat Marin Cilic and Marcelo Melo in their doubles semi-final match of the Paris Tennis Masters series on Saturday.

Aisam and Rojer, who sealed their slot into the semifinals on November 1, grabbed a 6-0, 4-6, 9-11 victory in a match lasting one hour and 23 minutes.

They lost the first set of the match, but came back to grab the win.

The duo will face the winner of the other semi-final involving Paul Hanley, Jonathan Marray and Mahesh Bhupatti, Rohan Bopanna. Aisam and Bopanna have previously remained partners before the latter left in favour of playing with fellow compatriot.

Aisam-Rojer now have a 31-21 match record this season, highlighted by two ATP World Tour titles.

The Pakistani and Dutch duo had already sealed their place in ATP World Tour Finals last Thursday.

Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly mentioned that Aisam-Rojer will face Bhupatti-Bopanna in the finals. The Indian duo had not played their semi-final match at that time. The error is regretted.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer through to semis</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/459863/aisam-rojer-through-to-semis</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/459863/aisam-rojer-through-to-semis#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 02 Nov 12 18:36:29 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=459863</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Doubles pair register straight-sets win over second seeds at Paris Masters.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer downed Max Mirnyi and Daniel Nestor in straight sets to reach the semi-finals of the Paris Masters yesterday.

Aisam and Rojer, who sealed their place at the ATP World Tour Finals in London on Thursday, registered a 6-3, 6-4 win in a match that lasted one hour and 15 minutes.

Meanwhile in the singles event, Gilles Simon thrilled home fans by reaching the semi-finals as he beat Czech fifth-seed Tomas Berdych 6-4, 6-4.

Simon has been making his own luck all week after starting out by beating former Australian Open finalist Marcos Baghdatis and then putting out lucky loser Victor Hanescu, who replaced absent top-seed Roger Federer in the draw.

Berdych will now head to London to take his place for Monday’s start of the season-ending World Tour Finals.

Simon, ranked 20th and the Bangkok finalist in September, needed four set points and almost an hour to win the opener against Berdych. He then recovered from a break down in the second to notch the popular victory.

Berdych has been on a roll, winning 22 of his last 26 matches at the Masters event which he won in 2005. He has now lost to Simon in five of seven matches.

“He was just too good today, he made no mistakes at all,” said Berdych. “I lost to a better player today, he played well and deserved to win.”

Published in The Express Tribune, November 3rd, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer qualify for World Tour Finals</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/459443/aisam-rojer-qualify-for-world-tour-finals</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/459443/aisam-rojer-qualify-for-world-tour-finals#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 01 Nov 12 18:21:33 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=459443</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Doubles pair seal berth after second-round win at Paris Masters; reach quarter-finals.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer became the seventh doubles team to qualify for the ATP World Tour Finals to be held at The O2 in London from November 5.


The Pakistani-Dutch pair secured their place after surviving a marathon encounter against Feliciano Lopez and Nenad Zimonjic for a 6-4, 6-7(3), 17-15 victory in one hour and 56 minutes for a place in the Paribas Masters quarter-finals yesterday. Qureshi and Rojer will be making their team debut at the season-ending championships.

They have a 32-21 match record on the season, highlighted by two ATP World Tour titles at the Estoril Open and Gerry Weber Open. Qureshi partnered with Rohan Bopanna at the prestigious event last year.

Murray shocked by unseeded Janowicz

Meanwhile in the singles event, towering Polish qualifier Jerzy Janowicz upset Andy Murray 5-7, 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 to complete the early exit of the elite from the Paris Masters.

Murray, seeded third, missed a match point as he followed second-seed Novak Djokovic out the door of the Bercy arena 24 hours after the tepid Serb had been beaten by American Sam Querrey.

The 21-year-old winner scored the biggest win of his career on his second match point and fell to the ground with his hands over his eyes lying on the court in pure joy.

“This is an unbelievable week for me,” said Janowicz. “I don’t know what to say after this match. I still don’t think this is happening.

“Now I am playing my best tennis in my whole life and hope I am not finished.”

Murray did not want to predict how the exits of himself and Djokovic might affect their showings in London.

“Only time will tell really,” said Murray. “A lot of the players will have had slightly different run-ins to the O2. Obviously Novak and I lost early this week; Roger didn’t play, and then I think the rest of the guys are still in here.”

Murray came out firing against the youngster’s huge serve and won the opening set on a break of serve through his opponent’s double-fault.

But the challenger came back in the second after going down a break, putting Murray on the back foot from a pair of sloppy forehands to level at 5-5 after the Scot had served for victory while putting a forehand cross-court wide on match point.

As the set went to a tiebreak, Janowicz took more initiative, winning it on a volleyed winner off a weak Murray dropshot. The Pole seized the match in the final set with two breaks of serve and a 5-1 lead before putting it away two games later.

Murray

“A lot of the players will have had slightly different run-ins to the O2. Obviously Novak Djokovic and I lost early this week; Roger Federer didn’t play, and then I think the rest of the guys are still in here.”

Janowicz

“This has been an unbelievable week. I don’t know what to say after this match. I still don’t think this is happening. Now I
am playing my best tennis in my whole life and hope I am not finished.”

Published in The Express Tribune, November 2nd, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer crash out of Stockholm Open</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/454458/aisam-rojer-crash-out-of-stockholm-open</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/454458/aisam-rojer-crash-out-of-stockholm-open#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 20 Oct 12 20:18:44 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=454458</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Duo beaten in semi-final; Top seed Stosur ousts Ivanonic to enter final.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Second seeds Aisamul Haq Qureshi of Pakistan and Jean-Julien Rojer of the Netherlands lost the doubles semi-final to Marcelo Melo and Joao Soares yesterday at the Stockholm Open.


Aisam and Rojer, who had qualified for the semi-final on Friday as a result of their opponents’ retirement, were defeated by the Brazilian duo 7-5, 3-6, 10-4.

Stosur books final with Wozniacki at Kremlin

Meanwhile, Samantha Stosur battled back from a set down to beat fourth seed Ana Ivanovic of Serbia 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 yesterday on her way to the final of the Kremlin Cup.

Stosur will next face former world number one Caroline Wozniacki, who also needed three sets to get past Swede Sofia Arvidsson 6-3, 6-7 (4/7), 6-4.

Ivanovic, 24, was in complete command in the opening set playing aggressive tennis to produce three breaks for a 1-0 lead, as 28-year-old Stosur struggled with her serve. It was the eighth game of the second set when Stosur broke to level at 1-1 after 39 more minutes on court. In the deciding set, Stosur broke twice to enter her season’s second final.

“She (Ivanovic) was making good first shots in the rally, which forced me to play defensively,” said Stosur.

“But in the second set I started serving a lot better and played much more accurate on return.”

Published in The Express Tribune, October 21st, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer through to Stockholm Open semis</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/453974/aisam-rojer-through-to-stockholm-open-semis</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/453974/aisam-rojer-through-to-stockholm-open-semis#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 19 Oct 12 19:53:31 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[agencies]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=453974</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Third seed Wozniacki enters semis in Kremlin Cup.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer qualified for the Stockholm Open semi-finals after their opponents Marcos Baghdati of Cyprus and Jarkko Nieminen of Finland retired yesterday.

Earlier, the duo had beaten Colombia’s Alejandro Falla and Spain’s Albert Ramos 6-3, 7-5 in the first round on Wednesday.

Aisam and Roger will face Brazil duo Marcelo Melo and Joao Soares in the semi-final today.

Wozniacki registers win over Cibulkova

Third-seed Caroline Wozniacki defeated defending champion Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia to advance to the WTA semi-finals of the Kremlin Cup yesterday.

Former world number one Wozniacki won 6-2, 6-7 (1/7), 6-1 to record her ninth win over Cibulkova, who is 14th in the WTA rankings, in their 12th head-to-head meeting.

“It was a very good match today as both of us played very well,” said Wozniacki.

“The difference at the end was that I could just keep my highest level up and I managed to win the most important points, especially at the beginning of the third set.”

Wozniacki will now face Sofia Avidsson of Sweden in today’s semi-final.

Avidsson saw off seventh seed Maria Kirilenko, the last Russian player in the draw, with a 6-3, 6-3 win.

Meanwhile, in the ATP section of the event, Malek Jaziri saw off Czech Lukas Rosol in straight sets 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 to become the first Tunisian player to reach a semi-final.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 20th, 2012.

&nbsp;]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer ousted in Shanghai</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/450763/aisam-rojer-ousted-in-shanghai</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/450763/aisam-rojer-ousted-in-shanghai#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Oct 12 19:26:19 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[agencies]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=450763</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Doubles pair loses to Fleming, Hutchins in quarter-final.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace Aisamul Haq Queshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer were knocked out of the doubles event at the Shanghai Masters after losing to Britons Colin Fleming and Ross Hutchins in the quarter finals.


Fleming and Hutchins saved two match points to beat the sixth-seeded pair of Aisam and Rojer 7-6(2), 4-6, 12-10 in two hours and 14 minutes.

In the second round on Thursday, Aisam and Rojer had beaten Spaniards Pablo Andujar and Marc Lopez to qualify for the quarter finals. They were given a bye in their first round. Last year, Aisam and his then Indian partner Rohan Bopanna had crashed out of the Shanghai Masters in the second round.

Murray sets up semis against Federer

Meanwhile, in the singles draw, Andy Murray maintained his perfect record at the Shanghai Masters yesterday, battling back from a set down against unseeded Radek Stepanek to reach the semi-finals.

The US Open champion was staring defeat in the face and searching in vain for inspiration but recovered to win 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 in two hours and 18 minutes.

“It was quite a scrappy first couple of sets,” said Murray. “The second set I managed to get a break, got a bit of momentum.

“I dictated a majority of the points at the end of the match and I needed to because he was playing with a lot of variety, making it hard for me.”

Top-ranked Roger Federer, who beat Murray in the Wimbledon final to earn a 17th Grand Slam title, was largely untroubled against Croatia’s Marin Cilic although he did waver when attempting to serve out the match.

The Swiss squandered a match point at 5-3 and Cilic took advantage to break for the second time in the match.

Federer was not detained for much longer, however, earning two more match points in the following game and converting the first when Cilic fired a forehand long.

Djokovic to meet Berdych in last-four

Second-seed Novak Djokovic beat German veteran Tommy Haas 6-3, 6-3, keeping his eyes firmly fixed on dislodging Federer from the top of the rankings.

“I feel good,” said Djokovic. “I’ve been winning a lot of matches in the last period, so it’s something that is always welcome when you want to have confidence, when you want to feel good about yourself on the court.”

Djokovic will play Tomas Berdych in the last-four, who came out on top against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in a battle between two of the contenders to reach next month’s ATP World Tour Finals. The Czech fourth-seed grabbed a crucial break against the powerful Frenchman in the eighth game of the first set and edged the second set tie-break to win 6-3, 7-6 (7/4).

“It was a really solid game,” said Berdych. “The biggest difference between me and Jo was I was able to take the small chances during the first and especially the second set.”

Murray

“I dictated a majority of the points at the end of the match and I needed to because he [Stepanek] was playing with a lot of variety.”

Djokovic

“I’ve been winning a lot of matches, so it’s something that is always welcome when you want to have confidence and feel good about yourself.”

Berdych

“The biggest difference between me and Jo was I was able to take the small chances during the first and especially the second set.”

Published in The Express Tribune, October 13th, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam turns down Bopanna for next season</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/446441/aisam-turns-down-bopanna-for-next-season</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/446441/aisam-turns-down-bopanna-for-next-season#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 03 Oct 12 18:24:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=446441</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistani keen to continue pairing with Rojer]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi has turned down Rohan Bopanna’s request for the duo to reunite for next season, insisting that his partnership with Jean-Julien Rojer is working well for him.

Bopanna, who parted ways with Aisam at the end of last year and paired up with Mahesh Bhupati keeping the London Olympics in mind, approached Aisam for next season but the Pakistani, while undecided about next year, seemed reluctant to resume the partnership.

“Bopanna is a friend and I love to play with him but right now I am concentrating on making it to the London Masters,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “Right now my priority is to make it back into the top-eight and Rojer is working equally hard with me. We’ve found our way and I don’t think I would want to change that.”

This year, Aisam has won tournaments in Halle and Estoril while also reaching the semi-finals of the US Open.

“It’s always about the team first and I am able to meet all the goals with Rojer. Last year was tricky and I respected Bopanna’s wish but for now I am concentrating on the job at hand. So far my coach thinks that I can achieve the desired results with Rojer so I am sticking to that.”

Since the split, Aisam has managed to keep his ranking in the top-15 doubles players. Currently, he is 13th while Bopanna, who has been banned from representing India by the country’s tennis federation, is 15th.

The highlight of Aisam and Bopanna partnership was when the duo reached the US Open final in 2010 where it lost to Bryan brothers.

“I’m extremely clear about my goals and I know I am working towards making it to the top. Rojer and I had our struggles but we have improved as a team with every tournament so I have to think in terms of results.”

Published in The Express Tribune, October 4th, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer crash out in 1st round</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/445975/aisam-rojer-crash-out-in-1st-round</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/445975/aisam-rojer-crash-out-in-1st-round#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 02 Oct 12 18:40:10 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=445975</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pair loses to Berdych, Zimonjix in Japan Open.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Jean-Julien Rojer crashed out of the Japan Open after losing to the unseeded pair Tomas Berdych and Nenad Zimonjic 7-6, 6-3 in the first round yesterday.

This was the duo’s first tournament after the US Open where it lost to Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan in the semi-final. Aisam’s ATP ranking has dropped to 13 but the Pakistani is hopeful of making the cut for the London Masters in December which comprises the top eight in the world.

In the singles event, Olympic gold medallist Andy Murray stood firm in his service game to beat Ivo Karlovic 7-6 (9/7), 6-4 in the first round. The 25-year-old defending champion came back to court after winning the US Open last month and did not face a single break point in his victory. In the second round, the Briton will take on Lukas Lacko of Slovakia, who defeated Albert Ramos.

In other matches, Milos Raonic coasted to a solid 6-4, 6-4 win over Radek Stepanek while Kei Nishikori defeated fellow Japanese Davis Cup teammate Go Soeda 4-6, 6-2, 6-3. Dmitry Tursunov of Russia downed Bernard Tomic of Australia 6-4, 7-5 and Marcos Baghdatis of Cyprus defeated Ukraine’s Sergiy Stakhovsky 7-6 (7/3), 7-5. (WITH ADDITIONAL INFO FROM AFP)

Published in The Express Tribune, October 3rd, 2012.]]>
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			<title>I belong among the best: Aisam</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/433113/i-belong-among-the-best-aisam</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/433113/i-belong-among-the-best-aisam#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 07 Sep 12 20:31:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[faras.ghani]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=433113</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis player content with 2012 show; aims for a top-10 finish at year-end.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi is not treating his men’s doubles loss in the US Open semi-final against the Bryan brothers as a defeat – he is celebrating the fact that his performance is improving after having made it to the second week of all four Grand Slams played this year.


This year, Aisam, and partner Jean-Julien Rojer, made it to the third round of the Australian Open and Wimbledon while the French Open, just like the US Open, saw them reach the semis only to lose to the Bryan brothers. Two years ago, Aisam had to settle for runners-up spots in the men’s and mixed doubles in New York, with the Bryans having a hand in both results. But now, aged 32, Aisam knows a major title is not too far.

“The 2010 US Open was my first experience at such a huge stage but now, I definitely believe I belong here among the top players,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “In fact, I know I can win a Grand Slam. I’ve had lots of ups and downs this year but I’ve also won two doubles titles – Halle and Gerry Weber – and just reaching the semi-finals of two grand slams is a huge achievement.

“Losing to the Bryans was disappointing but to be the best, you need to beat the best. I’ve beaten them in the past so maybe next time when we meet, it’ll be my turn to progress.”

Aisam was forced to pair up with Rojer after Bopanna, in order to prepare himself better for the 2012 London Olympics, decided to part ways. While Aisam confirmed that the new pairing may not be a long-term solution, he was happy with the results and aimed at a top-10 finish at the end of the year.

“The first few weeks of the year were very tough but we’ve been able to turn things around quite quickly. We’ve worked hard on the game as well as the communication and we’ve overcome all the issues. The past three to four months, we’ve been very, very consistent.”

Missing out of the Olympics, though, was a huge setback for Aisam since it was his aim since the start of the year as well. After having played in all four grand slams, as well as most ATP events on the calendar, Aisam, despite age not being on his side, is confident that he can tick that box before he retires.

“I was gutted to have missed the Olympics but if I stay fit and healthy, I’ll give it another go in four years’ time. Age is not an issue, you see Leander Paes, he’s 38 but playing so well. So I’m still hopeful.”

Published in The Express Tribune, September 8th, 2012.]]>
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			<title>US Open: Bryan brothers beat Aisam, Rojer in semi-final</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/432828/us-open-bryan-brothers-beat-aisam-rojer-in-semi-final</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/432828/us-open-bryan-brothers-beat-aisam-rojer-in-semi-final#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 06 Sep 12 20:51:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=432828</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The twins, Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan beat the Pak-Dutch duo, 6-3 (1), 6-4(2). Will face Paes-Stepanek in final.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer's US Open campaign ended on Thursday after being defeated by American pair, the Bryan brothers in the semi-final, Express News reported.

The twins, Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan beat the Pak-Dutch duo, 6-3 (1), 6-4(2) in a match lasting under two hours.

Fast becoming a nemesis of sorts for the Pak-Dutch duo, the American twins have earlier defeated them at the Cincinnati Masters 4-6, 6-4, 10-4 in the quarter-finals and 6-3, 7-6 in the Roland-Garros men’s doubles semi-finals.

This is not the first time that the Bryan brothers have defeated Aisam on home turf. In the 2010 edition of the US Open, Aisam and then partner Rohan Bopanna were beaten 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/4).

The American pair will now face Leander Paes (India) and Radek Stepanek (Czech Republic) in Sunday's final. The Indian-Czech duo had prevailed upon their sixth seeded opponents Spaniards Marcel Granollers and Marc Lopez when the latter retired with the scoreline reading 6-6.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/432828-Aisamulhaqphotoafp-1346963851/432828-Aisamulhaqphotoafp-1346963851.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>US Open: Aisam, Rojer to face Bryan brothers in semi-final</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/432089/us-open-aisam-rojer-cruise-into-semi-finals</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/432089/us-open-aisam-rojer-cruise-into-semi-finals#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 05 Sep 12 18:32:15 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=432089</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The Pak-Dutch duo beat American duo Ryan and Christian Harrison, 6-2, 6-3 in their quarter-final draw on Wednesday.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer have qualified for the semi-finals of the US Open Men's Doubles category by defeating the unseeded American pair of Ryan and Christian Harrison in the quarter-finals on Wednesday. 

The Pak-Dutch duo beat their opponents 6-2, 6-3, in a match lasting under two hours.

Aisam-Rojer will face the famous American Bryan brothers in their semi-final draw.

Later on Wednesday, the American twins beat French duo Julien Benneteau and Nicolas Mahut 7-6, 7-6 in their quarter-final draw.

The last time when the American pair and Aisam-Rojer played against each other at the Cincinnati Masters, the latter lost 4-6, 6-4, 10-4 in the quarter-finals.

It is noteworthy that Aisam's last US Open encounter in 2010 against the brothers, was alongside Indian partner Rohan Bopanna in the final, which resulted in the 'Indo-Pak Express’ being beaten 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/4).]]>
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			<title>US Open: Aisam, Rojer to face Harrisons in quarters</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/430677/us-open-aisam-rojer-to-face-harrisons-in-quarters</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/430677/us-open-aisam-rojer-to-face-harrisons-in-quarters#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 03 Sep 12 17:56:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=430677</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pair registers straight-sets win; Roddick stretches farewell event.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer will take on the unseeded American pair of Ryan and Christian Harrison in the quarter-finals of the US Open after a straight-sets win over Alex Bogomolov Jr and Raven Klaasen.

Aisam and Rojer, who earned walkovers in the opening two rounds, won 6-3, 6-4 to seal their match against the Harrisons who beat 14th-seeds Colin Fleming and Ross Hutchins 6-3, 6-4.

Roddick stretches tennis farewell

In the men’s singles event, Andy Roddick stretched his long goodbye into a prime-time showdown with fellow former champion Juan Martin Del Potro. The American advanced to the fourth round with a 7-5, 7-6 (7/1), 4-6, 6-4 victory over Italy’s Fabio Fognini.

“I’m trying to keep my emotions together, all the support I have received over the past few days has been truly humbling,” said 30-year-old Roddick.

Meanwhile, defending champion Novak Djokovic stormed into the last-16 after beating Julien Benneteau 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 without facing a single break point in his 97-minute victory.

Sharapova ends last-eight drought

In the women’s singles event, Maria Sharapova reached the quarter-finals for the first time since her 2006 championship run with a 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 victory over Nadia Petrova.

“I’m so happy to be in the quarters,” said Sharapova. “It has been so many years and it’s a great stage to be at.”

Sharapova will next face French 11th-seed Marion Bartoli, who beat Petra Kvitova 1-6, 6-2, 6-0, to book her first trip to the US Open quarter-finals at her 11th attempt. In other matches, Samantha Stosur beat giant-killer Laura Robson 6-4, 6-4 to set up a last-eight showdown with top-seed Victoria Azarenka, who ousted Georgia’s Anna Tatishvili 6-2, 6-2.

Andy Roddick

“I am trying to keep all of my emotions together. All the support I have received over the past few days has been truly humbling.”

 Victoria Azarenka

“As defending champion she will be motivated. I’m motivated as well. It’s my first quarter-final at the US Open and I’m looking forward to it.”

Published in The Express Tribune, September 4th, 2012.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/430677-aisamrojerafp-1346694864/430677-aisamrojerafp-1346694864.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>US Open: Aisam, Rojer cruise into quarter-finals</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/430551/us-open-aisam-rojer-cruise-into-quarter-finals</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/430551/us-open-aisam-rojer-cruise-into-quarter-finals#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 03 Sep 12 08:07:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[web.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=430551</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Qureshi, Rojer beat Russian A. Bogomolov, Jr. and his South African partner R. Klaasen by 6-3, 6-4, in men's doubles.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[After an outstanding win in the men’s doubles, tennis star Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer made it to the quarter final of the fourth and final Grand Slam of the year, Express News reported Monday.

The last Grand Slam, US Open is currently underway.

Qureshi and Rojer beat Russian tennis player Alex Bogomolov, Jr. and his South African partner Raven Klaasen by 6-3, 6-4.

Earlier, Qureshi and Su-Wei Hesieh were sent packing from the mixed doubles event of the US Open after a 6-4, 6-4 defeat to Kveta Peschke of Czech Republic and Marcin Matkowski of Poland in their opening  match of the tournament.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/430551-aisamrojerafp-1346659437/430551-aisamrojerafp-1346659437.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			</item><item>
			<title>US Open: Aisam crashes out of mixed doubles</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/428622/us-open-aisam-crashes-out-of-mixed-doubles</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/428622/us-open-aisam-crashes-out-of-mixed-doubles#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 30 Aug 12 19:47:05 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=428622</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pakistani, Taiwanese partner beaten in the opening round.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Su-Wei Hesieh were sent packing from the mixed doubles event of the US Open after a 6-4, 6-4 defeat to Kveta Peschke of Czech Republic and Marcin Matkowski of Poland in their opening  match of the tournament.

Meanwhile, Kim Clijsters said goodbye to her singles career after a 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5) loss to British teen Laura Robson in the second round at the same Arthur Ashe Stadium where she won three titles.

“It has been an incredible journey and a lot of dreams for me have come true because of tennis,” said Klijsters. “For me to have been able to have been a part of women’s tennis, and on top of women’s tennis for so many years, it has been a crazy rollercoaster.”

Murray backs giant-killer Robson for top

Meanwhile, Britain’s Andy Murray backed compatriot Robson to reach the top of the sport after the teenager’s stunning victory over Clijsters.

“She moved very well today,” said Murray. “I think if she keeps improving on her movement, she’s going to be a very good player. She’ll get to the top soon.”

Murray secured his place in the third round with a comfortable 6-2, 6-1, 6-3 win over Ivan Dodig of Croatia.

Sharapova sets up university challenge 

In other matches, third-seed Maria Sharapova cruised into the third round with a 6-0, 6-1 rout of hapless Spaniard Lourdes Dominguez Lino. The 2006 champion next faces American college player Mallory Burdette, the world number 252 who studies psychology at Stanford and is making her Grand Slam debut.

“It’s a big stage for her,” said Sharapova. “She will have the home support behind her. She will be a difficult opponent.”

Elsewhere, China’s Li Na beat Australian Casey Dellacqua 6-4, 6-4 while Petra Kvitova overpowered Alize Cornet 6-4, 6-3. Samantha Stosur also progressed with a 6-3, 6-0 win over Edina Gallovits-Hall.

In men’s singles matches, Lleyton Hewitt beat Tobias Kamke 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-4, David Ferrer overcame Kevin Anderson 6-4, 6-2, 7-6 (7/3) and Juan Martin del Potro defeated Florent Serra 6-4, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 31st, 2012.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/428622-Aisamulhaqphotoafp-1346355905/428622-Aisamulhaqphotoafp-1346355905.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>Cincinnati Masters: Aisam, Rojer crash out in quarters</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/423888/cincinnati-masters-aisam-rojer-crash-out-in-quarters</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/423888/cincinnati-masters-aisam-rojer-crash-out-in-quarters#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 18 Aug 12 19:00:22 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=423888</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pair loses to second-seeds Bryan brothers.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer crashed out of the Cincinnati Masters on Friday, losing 4-6, 6-4, 10-4 to second-seeds Mike and Bob Bryan in the quarter-finals.


Aisam and Rojer had earlier gotten a first-round bye before beating James Blake and Sam Querrey 6-2, 7-4 to move into the quarter-finals.

Serena’s streak ends at 19

Elsewhere, in the women’s play, Angelique Kerber ended the 19-match win streak of Wimbledon and Olympic champion Serena Williams with a 6-4, 6-4 victory.

The German fifth-seed double-faulted on one match point but concluded with a winning ace on another to send the second seed out of the event, one that Williams has never won. China’s Li Na reached the semi-finals with a 6-1, 6-1 win over top-seed Agnieszka Radwanska as the Polish favorite struggled with a shoulder injury.

Williams destroyed a racquet in a fit of anger during the loss but will now have the rest days she has been seeking during her summer of success ahead of the start of the US Open, which begins on August 27.

“I was nervous at the end but I told myself to just keep hitting the ball,” said Kerber. “Serena has been playing well. This was a good win for me and I’m very pleased.”

It was the opposite story for elder Williams sister Venus, who upset defending US Open champion Samantha Stosur of Australia 6-2, 6-7 (2/7), 6-4. The 32-year-old American twice had to serve for victory in the final set, nailing it on her second attempt from 5-4 after 2 1/2 hours.

“It’s always disappointing to lose when you play a good match like that and you think you’ve done enough almost to win,” said Stosur. “Still, I had three really good matches here and can get confidence and gain a bit of momentum going into New York.”

Federer moves closer to title

World number one Roger Federer moved closer to a fifth Cincinnati Masters crown as the Swiss star crushed American Mardy Fish 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) to reach the semi-finals.

Federer, seeking his sixth title of the year, was in regal form as he beat Fish for the eighth time in nine meetings. The American has lost 17 of 20 sets in the one-sided rivalry.

“I played realy well,” said Federer. “The second set was very competitive, but I was able to maintain a high level for a long time. I’m very pleased with the form and glad to reach the semis.”

US Open champion Novak Djokovic booked a semi-final with Olympic bronze medallist Juan Martin del Potro by beating Marin Cilic. It will be a rematch of the bronze medal match at London.

“The match with Del Potro won’t be for revenge,” said Djokovic. “This is sport. You win and you lose. He is playing with confidence and it will be a big challenge to play him.”

Serb second seed Djokovic took only 80 minutes to dispatch the Croatian 6-3 6-2, improving to 7-0 in their personal series.

“It was a very good match, my best of the tournament,” added Djokovic. “I’m on good form. I may have grown up on clay, but I’ve achieved my best career success on hardcourts.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 19th, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer through to quarters</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/423455/aisam-rojer-through-to-quarters</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/423455/aisam-rojer-through-to-quarters#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 17 Aug 12 18:32:38 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=423455</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pair to meet Bryan brothers in Cincinnati Masters.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer will moved into the quarter-final os the Cincinnati Masters with a 6-2, 7-4 win over James Blake and Sam Querrey.

The straight-set win meant that the pair was up against second-seeds Mike and Bob Bryan in the quarter-final that was scheduled for late last night.

Meanwhile, Olympic gold medallist Andy Murray was sent crashing out on Thursday, falling 6-4, 6-4 to Frenchman Jeremy Chardy.

Murray won a match in Toronto last week before quitting with a knee injury but had looked impressive in his opener here against American Sam Querrey. But the 25-year-old was distinctly under-cooked against Chardy and his 16th unforced error of the second set sent the Frenchman into the last eight.

“Winning tournaments before a major tournament hasn’t helped me,” said Murray. “That doesn’t normally have that much bearing. But I would have liked to have done a bit better this week.”

Roger Federer, meanwhile, turned in another flawless performance, schooling Australian teenager Bernard Tomic 6-2, 6-4 with 27 winners.

“Overall I’m happy but it’s hard to judge my game in these quick conditions,” said Federer, the Olympic silver medallist, who however admitted that his serve was ‘a bit off’.

“It was a good performance, I’m playing as well as I want to right now.”(With additional input from AFP)

Published in The Express Tribune, August 18th, 2012.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/423455-Aisamulhaqphotoafp-1345228269/423455-Aisamulhaqphotoafp-1345228269.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer out of Toronto Masters</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/421246/aisam-rojer-out-of-toronto-masters</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/421246/aisam-rojer-out-of-toronto-masters#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 13 Aug 12 01:10:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[natasha.raheel]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=421246</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Seventh-seeded duo crash out in third round.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan tennis ace Aisamul Haq Qureshi and his Dutch partner Jean-Julien Rojer crashed out of the Toronto Masters, suffering a third-round defeat at the hands of fourth-seeded pair of Robert Linstetd and Horia Tecau 6-2, 3-6, 10-7.

The seventh-seeded duo got a bye in the first round before defeating Jeremy Chardy and Gilles Simon 6-4, 4-6, 13-11 in the second round.

Djokovic through after delay

Meanwhile, in the men’s singles, Novak Djokovic endured a second frustrating day of rain delays with the top-seed defeating fellow Serb Janko Tipsarevic 6-4, 6-1 to reach the final.

Djokovic, who came away empty-handed from the London Olympics, waited out a long rain interruption for the second day in a row as he and fifth-seed Tipsarevic had to pause for 90 minutes in the sixth game of their semi-final.

Djokovic will take a 6-1 record into his final against Frenchman Richard Gasquet, who defeated John Isner 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, with the American later withdrawing from the Cincinnati Masters with a bad back.

“We wanted to play and finish the match tonight,” said world number two Djokovic, “Of course we cannot affect the weather, but it was good to get this match done. (With additional input from AFP)

Published in The Express Tribune, August 13th, 2012.]]>
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			<title>Aisam, Rojer progress in Toronto</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/420348/aisam-rojer-progress-in-toronto</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/420348/aisam-rojer-progress-in-toronto#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 10 Aug 12 18:42:38 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Pair aiming for year-ending London Masters.]]>
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				<![CDATA[Aisamul Haq Qureshi and Jean-Julien Rojer won their second-round match against the unseeded French pair of Jeremy Chardy and Gilles Simon 6-4, 4-6, 13-11 in the Roger’s Cup in Toronto.

This is Aisam’s first tournament with Rojer after Wimbledon as the Dutch player was taking part in the Olympics which Aisam had missed out on. The seventh-seeds got a bye in the first round.

“Our short term aim is the US Open and we hope to improve there,” Aisam told The Express Tribune. “We are going to play the pre-US Open season to improve our game and make sure that we remain in contention for the London Masters.”

They will be playing against fourth-seeds Robert Linstetd and Horia Tecau in the third round today.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 11th, 2012.

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			<title>Is Aisamul Haq single again?</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/408849/is-aisamul-haq-single-again</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/408849/is-aisamul-haq-single-again#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 16 Jul 12 04:29:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[ali.usman]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Faha Akmal alleges that both of them are ‘done with each other’.]]>
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				<![CDATA[The news of tennis star Aisamul Haq separating ways with Faha Akmal made the rounds on major television networks Sunday.  The pair had tied the knot in December last year and were said to have had a rocky union thus far.


Sources revealed that Haq has signed divorce papers and sent them to Faha Akmal in London.

Aisamul Haq’s father Ehtishamul Haq has denied the divorce proceedings over a text message and admonished the media for the “scandalous broadcast of such personal matters.”

Interestingly, Faha has confirmed the divorce.  Communicating through Facebook, she writes: “I respect Ehtishaam Uncle, but he is wrong about the divorce. Aisam and I are not happy with each other, and Aisam has already signed the divorce papers”.

In yet another comment she talks about their embittered marriage, “Aisam has a very busy life. He plays tennis for 38 weeks in a year. He never gave me enough time or treated me as a wife.”

Faha elaborates that there were many misunderstandings between her and Aisam, particularly in the last two months.

The decision to dissolve the marriage is quite mutual since they are both “done with each other”.

She explains that the contrast between her stance and that of her father-in-law arises because their “families don’t want to reveal the issue.”

Aisam and Faha were engaged for some six months before their marriage. After the wedding, Faha flew back to London after spending some two months at Aisam’s residence in Lahore.

Since then, Aisam has been visiting her in London from time to time.

Faha’s facebook page, however, still has her wedding photograph with Aisam as her background picture.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 16th, 2012.]]>
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