Pakistan’s top tennis player Aisam-Ul-Haq is a member of the Peace and Sport international organisation which works across the world to promote social cohesion. He is also an appointed United Nations goodwill ambassador.
As part of his roles, Haq and Bopanna have been trying to organise an exhibition match between Pakistan and India to promote peace between the two countries.
While talking to SBS Urdu at the Australian Open Haq says that he has been trying to improve cross border relations with India to promote tennis.
“[I want] tennis players from India to come to Pakistan and vice versa to play with each other,” says Haq.
“I and Bopanna have a huge goal to play a match on Wagah border.
“We are waiting for a green light from India right now because we have a green light from Pakistan to have this match.
“I want to promote peace in this world that is the only way forward.” he further added.
Talking to SBS Urdu Bopanna says that there is a lot more government involvement required to make something like this happen.
(L-R) Aisam-Ul-Haq Qureshi of Pakistan and Rohan Bopanna of India hold their trophy after the men's doubles final. Source: Chris McGrath/Getty Images
“Logistically there is a lot more involved than me and Aisam just picking up a racket and playing a match,” says Bopanna.
“We, both being the brand ambassadors for peace and sport, are trying to inspire kids from our countries [to play tennis].
“Even if you know one per cent of kids end up picking up tennis I think it will be a great win for us both Aisam and me,” he further added.
Haq is currently participating in the Australian Open.
Roger Federer & Aisam-Ul-Haq Source: Supplied
He played his first round in men’s double alongside Inglot in a touch match against Jean-Julien Rojer and Horia Tecău but lost the match.
*Click on the player at the top of the page to listen to the full podcast and find more about Haq, if he plans to retire and what are his future aspirations.
Special thanks to Dario Castaldo from SBS Italian for conducting the interview.
