Noor Zaman Wins U-23 World Squash Championship for Pakistan

Zaman Clinches Title in Thrilling Five-Game Battle

By DTD- On Apr 10, 2025

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s rising squash sensation, Noor Zaman, carved his name into the sport’s history books by capturing the 2025 U-23 World Squash Championship title in Karachi, defeating Egypt’s Kareem El Torkey in a dramatic five-game showdown.

The high-stakes final, held at the renowned DHA Creek Club, saw the 21-year-old from Peshawar stage an impressive comeback to clinch the championship. After a solid start in the opening game, Zaman found himself trailing 2-1 as El Torkey surged ahead, taking the second and third games 11-9 and 11-4. But Zaman, renowned for his mental strength and calm under pressure, turned the tide in his favor.

Displaying exceptional grit and determination, Zaman edged out a tense fourth game 11-9 before dominating the decider 11-7, sealing the title in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. The final scoreline read 11-6, 9-11, 4-11, 11-9, 11-7 — a true reflection of the intense, see-saw battle that kept fans riveted throughout.

Zaman’s victory not only showcased his skill and stamina but also highlighted his resilience and strategic adaptability. The win marks a major milestone in his burgeoning career and positions him as one of Pakistan’s brightest squash prospects.

His path to the championship was marked by standout performances, defeating top contenders such as France’s Melvil Scianimanico, Poland’s Jakub Pytlowany, and Kuwait’s Hussain Alzaatari. Each match further underlined his consistency, technical mastery, and ability to thrive under pressure.

With this remarkable victory, Noor Zaman not only adds a prestigious title to his name but also reignites hopes for a golden era of squash in Pakistan.

El Torkey, for his part, also put up a strong fight. The Egyptian had earlier upset top seed Ibrahim Elkabbani in the semi-final, which further heightened expectations for a thrilling final showdown. However, despite El Torkey’s early dominance, Zaman’s ability to adjust his game and come through in the clutch moments proved decisive.

Zaman’s victory marks a historic moment for Pakistan’s squash legacy, as he becomes the first Pakistani to win the U-23 World Squash Championship. This achievement not only cements his place as one of the brightest young talents in the sport but also brings a sense of pride to Pakistan, where squash has long been a source of national pride.

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.

The win is also a symbolic reminder of Pakistan’s deep-rooted history in squash, once dominated by legends such as Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan. Noor Zaman’s victory signals the resurgence of Pakistan’s squash dominance, offering hope for a new generation of players to follow in his footsteps.

As Zaman holds the U-23 World Squash Championship trophy aloft, his victory not only secures his place in history but also inspires a new wave of squash players in Pakistan, reaffirming the nation’s status as a powerhouse in the sport.

Final Score: Noor Zaman (Pakistan) 11-6, 9-11, 4-11, 11-9, 11-7 Kareem El Torkey (Egypt)

Noor Zaman’s triumph is expected to be celebrated as one of the standout sporting achievements in Pakistan this year, and his future in the sport looks incredibly promising.