Aisam loses in Chennai Open qualifiers

Tennis star still hopeful for doubles event after failing to qualify for open qualifiers.

KARACHI: Pakistan tennis star Aisamul Haq Qureshi suffered a shaky start to the new year after being beaten in the qualifying round of the singles event at the Chennai Open. Aisam lost in straight sets 6-4, 6-4 to Ante Pavic of Croatia to bow out of the individual event.

The 30-year old, however, has a bright chance in the doubles event of the tournament where he is seeded second along with his Indian partner Rohan Bopanna. The duo will start its campaign today against the pair comprising Netherland’s Robin Haase and David Goffin of Belgium.

“We enjoyed a good time last year and want to continue our fine run,” Aisam told reporters in Chennai.

“It will be a tough task in the presence of Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Peas but we hope to give our best.” The home pair of Bhuphati and Peas is the top seed in the tournament.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 3^rd, 2011.