Jahangir Khan believes hosting PSA World Tour events will lead to Pakistan squash revival

July 07 2023

Jahangir Khan, universally recognised as the world's greatest ever squash player, believes that hosting more Professional Squash Assocaition (PSA) events and providing additional multi-sport facilities can raise the sporting standard in Pakistan, a nation "brimming with exceptionally talented players."

Regarding the recent PSA Satellite Series at the Roshan Khan Jahangir Khan RKJK Squash Complex, sponsored by XtremeLabs, Jahangir Khan stated, "The purpose of hosting the PSA Satellite events was to provide our players with a platform  to enhance their international rankings and excel in international competitions abroad. This is the path that can lead them to reclaim lost squash glory."

Highlighting squash and hockey as two sports where Pakistan has lost its luster in recent decades, Khan emphasized the crucial role the corporate sector can play in supporting sports and reinstating international events in the country.

Speaking about XtremeLabs, one of the generous sponsors backing squash and organizing top-level tournaments in Pakistan, Khan said, "In return, it is the responsibility of Pakistani players to dedicate themselves to hard work and practice that can help them win international medals for Pakistan."

Jahangir Khan emphasised, "Our country is brimming with exceptionally talented players across all sports. What we urgently need is to provide them with modern facilities and consistent participation in national and international events."

According to Jahangir, this outlook would enhance players' skills, boost rankings, and "enable them to excel against the best in the field, ultimately bringing international glory to Pakistan."

Jahangir Khan's accomplishments and contributions to the game are nothing short of remarkable.

During his illustrious career, Jahangir Khan dominated the squash scene like no other player before him. He held an unprecedented unbeaten streak of 555 consecutive matches over a span of five and a half years from 1981 to 1986. This remarkable feat remains unparalleled in the history of any professional sport.

Jahangir Khan clinched a total of six World Championship titles from 1981 to 1986, establishing himself as the undisputed champion of the sport. His aggressive playing style, agility, and exceptional shot-making abilities set him apart from his competitors. Jahangir's dominance on the court revolutionized the way squash was played, inspiring a new generation of players.

In addition to his World Championship victories, Jahangir Khan also won the British Open Championship a record-breaking ten times. He showcased his remarkable skills and mental fortitude by consistently defeating the top players of his era and cementing his status as the true icon of squash.

Jahangir Khan's impact on the sport extended beyond his extraordinary achievements. He popularized squash in his native country of Pakistan and played a significant role in elevating its profile on the international stage. His success inspired a wave of young Pakistani squash players who aimed to follow in his footsteps.

Recognising his immense contributions to the sport, Jahangir Khan was honored with several prestigious awards and accolades. He was bestowed with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to squash in 1983. In 2002, he was inducted into the World Squash Hall of Fame, solidifying his place as a true legend of the game.

Even after retiring from professional play, Jahangir Khan continued to promote and develop squash. He served as the President of the World Squash Federation from 2002 to 2008, working tirelessly to expand the reach of the sport and make it more accessible to people around the world.

Jahangir Khan's extraordinary achievements, both on and off the court, have left an indelible mark on the world of squash. His dominance, unmatched winning streak, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made him an iconic figure and a true inspiration for aspiring squash players globally.