ISLAMABAD: In a nerve-racking final, Pakistan edged past Indonesia 2-1 to win the 16-team Davis Cup Juniors 2025 in Kuching, Malaysia, on Saturday.
Both teams were locked 1-1 going into the important doubles where the pair of Hamza Roman/Abubakar Talha overcame a strong Indonesian challenge from Mangunsong Rafa Jeconia and Suryana Raphael Rio to win 7-6 (0), 2-6, 10-7. The title match was decided in a super tie break with Hamza and Abubakar showing strong nerves to edge past the Indonesian pair.
Earlier, Pakistan got off to a confident start as Abubakar Talha outplayed Suryana Raphael Rio 6-1, 6-2. Indonesia’s top player Gunawan Joachim Mika then overcame a strong resistance from Mikaeel Ali Baig before winning 6-4, 4-6, 6-1.
Pakistan remained unbeaten throughout the championship, showcasing exceptional talent, determination, and teamwork.
By virtue of this triumph, Pakistan have now qualified for the ITF Asia/Oceania Davis Cup Juniors Qualifying Event, scheduled in Kazakhstan from May 19-24.
Expressing his joy, Pakistan team captain Shahzad Khan stated: “I am extremely happy with the way the boys played from start to finish. Their dedication and hard work paid off, and I am incredibly proud of all the players.”
Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF), congratulated the team on the historic achievement, calling it a moment of immense pride for Pakistan. He commended the players — Mikaeel Ali Baig, Abubakar Talha, and Hamza Roman — as well as captain Shahzad for their dedication and commitment.
President-PTF highlighted the remarkable progress made in international competitions, noting that while the team finished 16th out of 16 in 2023, and 5th out of 16 in 2024, this year, Pakistan achieved a historic milestone by winning the championship, a clear indication that the country’s tennis is on the right path.
Aisam also acknowledged the invaluable contribution of Robert Davis (ATP Coach) and Eduarduo Lalovic (ATP Trainer), who conducted an intensive training camp in Islamabad in February. He highlighted that all three players from the winning squad participated in the month-long camp, and their success in Malaysia is a direct result of that high-level training.
Col. Zia-ud-Din Tufail, Secretary General of PTF, extended his congratulations to the players, their families, and the entire nation, stating: “This victory marks a new era for Pakistan’s junior tennis on the international stage. It is a testament to the incredible talent.”
Results:
Abubakar Talha bt Suryana Raphael Rio 6-1, 6-2
Gunawan Joachim Mika bt Mikaeel Ali Baig 6-4, 4-6, 6-1
Doubles:
Hamza Roman/Abubakar Talha Beat Mangunsong Rafa Jeconia/Suryana Raphael Rio 7-6 (0), 2-6, 10-7.
