United States Consul General in Karachi, Scott Uzum, has said there is no shortage of talent in Pakistan and expressed hope that the country will once again produce a world-class squash champion like Jahangir Khan.
Speaking to media at the prize distribution ceremony of the National Junior and Women’s Squash Championship at the PSF Jahangir Khan Squash Complex, Uzum said, “There is no lack of talented and capable men and women in Pakistan.” The championship was organised by the Sindh Squash Association with support from the Pakistan American Business Council.
Uzum highlighted that hosting the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles is an honour for the United States. He welcomed the return of cricket to the Olympics after 138 years and said the inclusion of squash in the Olympic Games would help promote the sport globally.
“Sports play an important role in empowering women,” he noted. “My daughters have expressed their abilities and talent by playing football, wrestling, and rugby.”
He appreciated the efforts of the Pakistan American Business Council for encouraging emerging athletes and said that the organisation of squash events was a commendable step.
Squash legend Jahangir Khan, also present at the ceremony, said he always tries to mentor and guide young players. “The Sindh Squash Association is organising quality competitions, and its academies are providing excellent facilities for training,” he said.
“Players should make full use of these opportunities and work hard to achieve good results,” he added. Jahangir also praised sponsors like McDonald’s for supporting squash development.
President of the Sindh Squash Association, Asad Adnan, said free education and training are being provided at the academy with the support of the American Business Council and the Sindh government. “We are now starting to see positive results,” he said, adding that expansion plans are underway in Hyderabad and Sukkur.
Former national champion Saadia Gul, who won the women’s event, said she was thrilled to return to the squash court after four years and clinch the title. “I aim to represent Pakistan in future national and international events,” she said.
McDonald’s COO Jamil Mughal reaffirmed the company’s commitment to promoting sports and other positive activities in Pakistan. “We will continue to play our national role in encouraging such initiatives,” he stated.
