ISLAMABAD: In a long awaited step towards ensuring transparency and merit, the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) has decided to implement strict age verification measures for junior players, addressing long-standing concerns over the participation of overage athletes in age-restricted competitions.
The decision was taken during the Annual General Meeting (AGM), where it was acknowledged that, for years, there had been talks on overage players’ participation in age restricted national and international junior events, undermining fair competition and genuine talent development.
Under the new policy, the PTF will conduct wrist-based age tests for all selected players in the Under-12, Under-14, and Under-16 categories (boys and girls), effective from January 1, 2027. Players found to be overage by up to one year will remain eligible. However, those exceeding the age limit by more than one year will not be considered for selection. The same regulation will also apply to all national tournaments.
Age verification has long remained a contentious issue, not only in Pakistan tennis but also in other disciplines such as squash. Concerns have steadily mounted over the authenticity of players’ ages, particularly in junior categories, where some athletes have continued to feature in age-restricted events for well over a decade.
Such practices not only undermine the spirit of fair competition but also risk tarnishing the country’s reputation on the international stage as witnessed during the Junior US Open Squash. More critically, it places genuine young talent at a severe disadvantage, forcing them to compete against opponents who are significantly older, more experienced, and physically mature.
The consequences extend beyond immediate competition. Players who outstay their legitimate tenure in junior circuits often fail to make a meaningful impact upon transitioning to the senior level. Despite years of dominance in junior events, many fade into obscurity, exposing a lack of real development and raising serious questions about the integrity and effectiveness of the system.
The AGM was attended by PTF President Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, Patron Senator Salim Saifullah Khan, and Secretary-General Col. Zia-ud-din Tufail, along with members of the management committee and representatives of affiliated units from across the country.
The meeting also featured detailed discussions on the development of tennis in Pakistan, focusing on grassroots initiatives, player development, and infrastructure improvement. Various proposals were presented to strengthen the overall tennis framework nationwide.
Affiliated units shared their plans and provided input on promoting the sport at both regional and national levels. A key point of discussion was the need to host more international tournaments in Pakistan, which would offer local players greater exposure, help improve their rankings, and facilitate their entry into the international circuit.
Speaking on the occasion, Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi appreciated the efforts of all stakeholders and reiterated the federation’s commitment to raising the standard of tennis in the country through strategic planning, collaboration, and increased international engagement.
