Srinagar, Nov 16: Thirteen-year-old national tennis player Mohammad Qais was honoured during the grand finale of the Champions Trophy in Srinagar, but for his father, Aijaz Rasool, who coached him himself on local courts, the recognition is bittersweet, as he hopes government support will ensure the young prodigy doesn’t miss another chance to play abroad.
As per a statement, the award recognised Qais’s achievements in national-level tennis and his growing contribution to sports in Jammu & Kashmir.
Meanwhile, Aijaz Rasool, father of Qais, told Greater Kashmir that at 13, Mohammad Qais was already a three-time national player in soft tennis, a district and state champion, and a rising star in lawn tennis.
“I coached him myself,” says Aijaz Rasool, his voice tinged with quiet pride. “I used to play tennis on local courts. When I saw his passion spark, I decided that even if we had no access to trained coaches, I would teach him the basics myself.”
Despite winning medals at nationals, both in sub-junior and senior categories, and earning applause at several tournaments, there’s one moment that still sits heavy in Aijaz’s heart.
“One and a half years ago, he was selected to represent India at an international tournament in Thailand. But his passport was not ready. That opportunity just slipped by,” he said.
Aijaz measures his son’s achievements in more than just physical terms.
“When he gets a medal, I feel energetic,” he says with a smile. “Standing there, watching him, I feel the pain in my body reduce. He is playing not just his game but my dreams too.”
Yet with each tournament, the reality of rising costs looms large. “We have proven the talent,” Aijaz says. “What we now need is support from local sports bodies and from the government. My son shouldn’t miss another chance to represent India.”
