The Fleet Club Open International Squash Championship will begin on Friday in Karachi, bringing together 24 players from eight countries to compete for a total prize purse of $41,000. Organized by the Sindh Squash Association, the five-day tournament will take place at the Pakistan Navy Roshan Khan-Jahangir Khan Squash Complex and is expected to showcase some of the region’s top squash talent.

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Tournament officials announced that players from Pakistan, Egypt, Switzerland, Japan, Malaysia, Brazil, Hong Kong and the United States will compete in the international event. Pakistan’s Noor Zaman enters the tournament as the top seed, while compatriot Muhammad Asim Khan has secured direct qualification for the main draw.

More than 100 words into the championship announcement, Fleet Club remains at the center of Pakistan’s efforts to revive its squash legacy. Sindh Squash Association President Adnan Asad said the event aims to provide local players with valuable international exposure and ranking opportunities without leaving the country. He added that competing against world-class opponents on home courts will help Pakistani players improve their performance and confidence.

Former six-time world champion Jahangir Khan expressed hope that Pakistan’s emerging players would qualify for the Los Angeles Olympics and compete for medals. He said achieving that goal depends on the players’ dedication, discipline and hard work, adding that success can only come through consistent effort on the court.

Jahangir Khan also praised the Pakistan Navy for its longstanding contribution to the development of squash in the country. He recalled growing up at the Fleet Club, describing it as the place where he developed the skills that helped him achieve international success. He added that the venue also played a vital role in producing legendary players such as Hashim Khan and Roshan Khan.

Commodore Ali Haider reaffirmed the Pakistan Navy’s commitment to supporting the championship and promoting healthy sporting activities across the country. He said the Navy will continue encouraging sports alongside its professional responsibilities, helping create opportunities for Pakistan’s next generation of squash players.