Elite players converge for the Rich Venus PSA Gold Open 2026 in Karachi
By Beena Khan
After nearly two decades away from the international spotlight, squash made a powerful return to Pakistan in April 2025 with the hosting of the U23 World Squash Championship at DHA Creek Club. The event brought together 34 men and 22 women from 22 countries and marked a long-awaited revival of the sport in a country once synonymous with squash excellence. Building on that momentum, the Rich Venus PSA Gold Open emerged as the second major international tournament at the venue, drawing elite players from more than 20 countries and offering a total prize purse of $243,000.
The tournament was more than a display of world-class competition; it was a celebration of a sport deeply embedded in Pakistan’s sporting identity. For nearly five decades, Pakistan dominated the global squash arena. Legends such as Roshan Khan, Hashim Khan, Qamar Zaman, Jahangir Khan, and Jansher Khan amassed British Open and World Open titles with remarkable consistency, setting unparalleled standards of fitness, strategy, and mental resilience in a sport that demands absolute precision.
That legacy was unmistakably present at the Rich Venus Open. In the men’s draw, Mohamad Zakaria clinched the title after a gripping five-game final, displaying composure and skill under pressure. Praising the venue, he said, “The venue was state of the art and it was a joy to play here.”
For Pakistan’s rising star Noor Zaman, the tournament proved to be a defining chapter in his career. Entering the event ranked World No. 38, Noor delivered a standout performance in a thrilling quarter-final against former World Champion Mohamed ElShorbagy, narrowly losing 3–2. His spirited showing earned widespread acclaim and propelled him to a career-high world ranking of No. 30. Noor’s matches not only underscored his growing stature but also highlighted the energy of the home crowd and the exceptional quality of the DHA Creek Club courts, featuring gleaming glass walls, optimal lighting, and climate-controlled conditions that allowed athletes to compete at the highest level.
The women’s competition was equally compelling. Amina Orfi secured the title in straight games, exhibiting remarkable poise and precision throughout the tournament. Runner-up Sivasangari Subramaniam lauded the venue, saying, “Yes, the venue is superb for playing squash. The people in Pakistan are very hospitable.” Torrie Mallick echoed the sentiment, noting, “I love the venue and the environment as well,” while Orfi added, “I love the venue, especially the court—it was so good playing here.” Their remarks reflected both the technical excellence of the facilities and the warm, professional atmosphere fostered by DHA Creek Club.
The success of the tournament also underscored DHA’s long-term commitment to developing world-class sports infrastructure. From glass courts and training facilities to seamless event management, the venue impressed players and officials alike, demonstrating that Pakistan is fully capable of hosting international competitions at par with global standards.
Among the distinguished attendees was squash legend Jahangir Khan, whose presence symbolized the bridge between Pakistan’s glorious past and its promising future. Emphasizing the fundamentals of the sport, he remarked, “Focus and training are essential, as squash is a game of physical resilience and mental focus. That is what I would urge young players to concentrate on. Training hard is the key.” He also described DHA Creek Club’s facilities as “state of the art,” reinforcing the belief that Pakistan’s new generation of players now has the infrastructure needed to match their ambition and talent.
Ultimately, the Rich Venus Open was more than a tournament—it was a homecoming. After years of absence driven by security concerns and infrastructural challenges, squash has returned to its natural home. From memories of Jahangir Khan’s unparalleled unbeaten streak to Noor Zaman’s electrifying performances today, Pakistan’s courts once again resonate with world-class talent, passion, and promise.
For players and spectators alike, the event reaffirmed that Pakistan is not merely part of squash history; it remains a formidable force within it. The roar of the crowd, the brilliance of the glass courts, and the caliber of competition all pointed to a single conclusion: squash has truly come home.
With the successful hosting of both the U23 World Championship and the Rich Venus PSA Gold Open, Pakistan has firmly reclaimed its place on the global squash map. The convergence of elite talent, world-class infrastructure, and an enabling environment signals the beginning of a new era—one in which Pakistan’s squash legacy is not only remembered, but actively rebuilt.
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