Pakistan’s Hamza Khan hopes to shine on world squash circuit

Pakistani squash player Hamza Khan, who won last year’s World Junior Championship in Melbourne, aims to break into the top-20 rankings by challenging leading competitors to boost his game.

“To improve, you need to compete with the best,” Hamza told Nukta in an interview.

“Many Pakistani players' careers have suffered due to a lack of strong training partners, and I don’t want to be one of them. I’m confident in my abilities, and if I get the same level of investment as cricketers, I’ll be in the top 20 within a year,” he added.

Breakthrough win

Last year, Hamza became only the third Pakistani to win the prestigious title by defeating Egypt’s Mohamed Zakaria 3-1 in the World Junior Championship final in Melbourne. He achieved this victory after a 37-year gap since Pakistan's last win, by Jansher Khan, who triumphed over Australia’s Rodney Eyles in 1986.

After losing the first set 10-12, Hamza made a strong comeback, winning the next three sets 14-12, 11-3, 11-6 to secure the victory against Zakaria. This achievement brought him national attention, with prominent leaders and officials applauding his performance.

Sohail Qaisar was the first Pakistani to win the World Junior Squash Championship, defeating Chris Dittmar of Australia 3-1 in Kuala Lumpur in 1982.

“Before, no one knew who I was, but I proved my potential by winning the World Junior Championship for Pakistan after 37 years,” Hamza said. “With support from the government and private sector, I believe I can achieve even greater milestones.”

Hamza remains determined to bring more titles to Pakistan, including the British Open and World Open, despite the ups and downs of the sport. He added, “Soon, you’ll see me winning more titles for Pakistan, inshaAllah.”

Financial challenges

However, he highlighted the financial challenges he faces, mentioning that an upcoming trip to France and Portugal will cost him Rs3.6 million, which his father is funding without any other support.

“It’s frustrating. I will do it for one year but will not be able to bear these expenses anymore,” he shared. “We’re representing Pakistan, but there’s no assistance, not even for ticket expenses.”

Hamza’s goal is to improve his ranking by competing in PSA events, but he acknowledges that he needs substantial backing to participate in more tournaments.

“I can break into the top 20-30 in a year if I get the necessary support,” he emphasized.

Hamza’s father is an air traffic controller, and while Pakistan’s Prime Minister awarded him Rs 10 million for his World Junior win, 20% was deducted as tax.

“I brought home a title after 37 years, but only received Rs8 million due to taxes. Meanwhile, javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, who deserved his awards, faced no deductions,” he said.

Hamza also expressed disappointment with obstacles facing athletes like him, saying, “I don’t engage in politics, but it’s disheartening to see barriers that hold back athletes with potential.”

Future plans

Though foreign nations have approached him with offers to play for them, Hamza insists he is loyal to Pakistan.

“I’m committed to playing for my country. I want to raise my flag,” he stated.

To enhance his skills, Hamza plans to join the James Willstrop Academy in England, where he will train with top partners.

“I’ll be training at the academy after my France trip, though it’s costly,” he said. “The expenses are challenging for my family, but this training is crucial at my stage.”

Despite the challenges, Hamza dedicates seven to eight hours daily to squash.

“Squash is my passion. I train throughout the day, focusing intensely on my fitness and match practice, even on Sundays,” he said. “Constant effort is essential to reach high goals in this sport.”