LAHORE - Pakistan’s top ITF senior tennis player Rashid Malik produced a gutsy performance to reach the final of the MT100 Oxford 2025 Tennis Tournament, held at the North Oxford Tennis Club in the United Kingdom.
In a thrilling semifinal clash, Malik edged past Simon Elliot of Great Britain in a high-stakes battle, coming back from a set down to clinch the match 4-6, 6-2, 11-9. The 62-year-old seasoned campaigner from Pakistan saved a match point at 8-9 in the final-set tiebreaker, showcasing remarkable nerves and resilience to advance to the final.
With this hard-fought victory, Rashid Malik (Tamgha-e-Imtiaz) has set up a final showdown with top seed Graeme Adams, also of Great Britain, who breezed past compatriot Simon Palfreyman in straight sets 6-2, 6-1 in the other semifinal.
Speaking after his epic match, an elated Malik admitted it was one of the most challenging contests of his season. “I was lucky to survive a match point at 8-9. Simon played brilliantly, probably the best touch I have seen from any player this year. I knew it would be tough since he won the MT200 Felixstowe 2025 event last week.”
Despite the intense schedule, Malik remains focused and optimistic. “I am determined to bring this title home for Pakistan. Reaching the final in such tough conditions is already a big moment, and I will give it my all.” In a light-hearted note, Malik announced he has decided to pull out of next week’s ITF Masters event to enjoy the prestigious Wimbledon Championships in person.