Pakistan's rising squash star Noor Zaman created history here at the DHA Creek Club on Thursday by winning the 2025 U-23 World Squash Championship, defeating Egypt's Kareem El Torkey in a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory. The brilliant 21-year-old from Peshawar displayed resilience, determination and skill as he overcame a challenging start to secure the coveted title.
The match was an intense battle, with Zaman initially struggling as El Torkey took an early 2-1 lead. The Egyptian displayed his aggressive playing style, clinching the second and third games 9-11 and 4-11, respectively.
However, Zaman, known for his composure under pressure, refused to back down. The Pakistani ace regained control in the fourth game, narrowly winning 11-9, and then delivered a dominant 11-7 victory in the deciding fifth game.
Despite being on the back foot, he exhibited incredible resilience to bounce back, ultimately clinching the title in front of a passionate home crowd. The final scoreline of 11-6, 9-11, 4-11, 11-9, and 11-7 was a reflection of the intense contest, which kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
Noor Zaman, on his way to the final, beat top players including France's Melvil Scianimanico, Poland's Jakub Pytlowany, and Kuwait's Hussain Alzaatari, to reach the final.
El Torkey had earlier upset top seed Ibrahim Elkabbani in the semi-final, which further heightened expectations for a thrilling final showdown.
Speaking after the match, Zaman dedicated his victory to the people of Pakistan, especially to the passionate fans who supported him throughout the tournament. "This win is for Pakistan. The support I have received has been overwhelming, and it pushed me to give my best on the court. I'm proud to carry forward the rich legacy of squash in Pakistan," Zaman said.
Squash legend Jahangir Khan was a delighted man and said Noor Zaman's win is a massive boost for Pakistan squash and it will hopefully inspire other talented youngsters to take up the game and excel in it.
"Pakistan have a great history of champions in squash and have produced more than 20 world champions. I sincerely hoe we can revive that glory very soon," said the 'Unsquashable' Jahangir Khan.
CEO, World Squash Federation, William Louis-Marie, was very happy to be at the mega event, and said, "It's great to be here and Pakistan, known for its hospitality, has lived up to its name. The courts here are world-class."
Commissioner Karachi Syed Hassan Naqvi extended heartfelt congratulations to Noor Zaman for his tremendous win. "Noor's victory is a shining example of what hard work and determination can achieve," he said.
"He has not only made the nation proud but has also become a role model for the youth of Pakistan."
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