K. Jahangir
*Abdur Rehman Bin Muhammad Sohail Rana*, a sports student at SICAS and former Pakistan No. 1 in the Under-10, Under-12, and Under-14 categories, has made a remarkable comeback after an eight-month break due to a knee injury. Under the intensive training of former tennis legend Haseeb Aslam, Abdur returned to the tennis arena with renewed determination and stormed into three finals: the Under-16 singles, Under-18 singles, and Under-18 doubles.
In the Under-18 singles semi-final, Abdur defeated Umer in a thrilling encounter, winning 7–6 (7–2). Despite trailing 6–5, he fought back to level the score at 6–6 before dominating the tie-break to secure an impressive victory. He later partnered with Umer to reach the Under-18 doubles final after defeating the strong pair of Muaz and Aliyan. They faced Amir Mazari and Abdullah Yousaf in the final.
Abdur Rehman also showcased his outstanding form in the Under-16 singles, defeating Muaz 6–3 to qualify for the final. He subsequently shared the Under-16 title with Ayan Shahbaz, who had defeated Umer Ali in the semi-final. The final could not be played due to time constraints, as Abdur had competed in five matches on the tournament’s final day.
Abdur Rehman and his parents expressed their heartfelt gratitude to **Shahryar Salamat, Head of SICAS School Systems**, a passionate tennis and sports enthusiast and international tennis player, for his continued support throughout their children’s tennis journey. They particularly appreciated his commitment to providing scholarships and helping young athletes balance their academic responsibilities with sports. His encouragement and support have helped students pursue their sporting ambitions while continuing their education.
They also thanked **Haseeb Aslam**, a former tennis legend, for his intensive training, dedication, and contribution to Abdur’s impressive comeback after his injury.
Abdur further acknowledged **Sir Rashid Malik** for his continued commitment to promoting tennis by organising more competitions and providing young players with opportunities to compete, improve their skills, and prepare for future tournaments. He also thanked **Miss Nuzhat, Principal of SICAS JT**, for supporting students in managing their studies alongside their sporting commitments.
Above all, Abdur Rehman expressed gratitude to **Allah Almighty** for his success and thanked his grandparents for their prayers, encouragement, and unwavering support throughout his tennis journey.
The tournament highlighted the talent, determination, and competitive spirit of SICAS students, with three titles fiercely contested by its players. Abdur’s remarkable return to competitive tennis demonstrates his resilience, dedication, and fighting spirit.
Meanwhile, **Hajra Sohail**, Abdur Rehman’s sister and a SICAS student, is competing in the W15 women’s tennis tournament as one of its youngest players. She is also set to represent the women’s team at the **Billie Jean King Cup**, scheduled to be held in Islamabad next week.
Abdur Rehman Bi Muhammad Sohail Rana’s inspiring comeback demonstrates that setbacks cannot stop those who remain committed to their goals. With the support of his coaches, school, family, and well-wishers, he has returned to the court with renewed ambition.
**Once a champion, always a champion!**
English