BIRMINGHAM: Sohail Adnan, a 12-year-old squash prodigy from Bahawalpur, has made history by becoming the first Pakistani to win a gold medal at the Junior Open Squash Championship in the Under 13 category after an 18-year hiatus. In a gripping final held at the University of Birmingham's sports centre, Adnan triumphed over Egypt's top seed, Moiz Tamir Al-Mughazi, in a five-game thriller.
After receiving his gold medal, Adnan expressed his joy and commitment to representing Pakistan on the international stage. He recounted the intense match, stating, "I was leading after the first game, but my opponent made a strong comeback. My coach and teammates provided crucial support, and I focused on winning for my country." The final score of the match was 11-5, 5-11, 6-11, 11-7, and 11-5.
Adnan's victory celebration was a testament to his passion and dedication. He celebrated exuberantly, acknowledging the pressure of competing against a crowd-favorite opponent. This win marks Adnan's third title in just over a year, following victories at the Scottish Junior Open and the Asian Junior Open. He now sets his sights on the World Junior Squash Championship scheduled for July-August 2025 in Cairo, Egypt.
Currently balancing his studies and squash training, Adnan emphasized the need for greater support for squash in Pakistan. He called on sports authorities to invest more in the sport, highlighting the potential of young talent in the country. Adnan's journey exemplifies the blend of dedication, familial support, and ambition that defines a champion.