'Pakistan to host Billie Jean King Cup for first time in October'

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will host the Billie Jean King Cup for the first time later this year, with 10 women’s teams from Asia set to take part in the tournament in October, the Pakistan Tennis Federation announced on Sunday.

The event is scheduled to be held from Oct 19 to 25 and will bring together teams from across the region for what the federation described as a significant moment for women’s tennis in the country.

Pakistan Tennis Federation president Aisam-ul-Haq said the development marked a first in the country’s sporting history.

"For the first time in Paki­stan’s sporting history, 10 Asian women’s teams will be arriving to compete [in the BJK Cup] on our soil," he said in a vlog.

Aisam-ul-Haq said the tournament would give Pakistani players an important opportunity to compete at home and strengthen their standing in the international game. "This event will be a game changer providing the Pakistan girls with a unique platform to showcase their talent and impr­ove world rankings," he added.

According to the PTF president, the International Tennis Federation has formally awarded Pakistan the hosting rights for the Billie Jean King Cup. He said the decision showed increasing international trust in Pakistan’s capacity to stage major sporting events.

He also said the federation would work to ensure the tournament is organised in the best possible manner and in line with high standards.

Aisam-ul-Haq said the federation viewed the tournament as an opportunity to present a positive image of Pakistan internationally while also underlining support for women in sports.

He further said the federation remained committed to providing women athletes with the same opportunities and recognition as male players.

The week-long competition is expected to be a landmark occasion for tennis in Pakistan, as the country prepares to welcome multiple international women’s teams for the first time in the Billie Jean King Cup.