Pakistan’s pickleball scene has been developing away from much of the international spotlight, but Zain Waseem has given the country a major reason to take notice.
Key Takeaways from Waseem's Triumph:
- Zain Waseem won gold in the men’s 30-plus singles category at the 2026 Pickleball World Cup in Da Nang, Vietnam.
- The Shapes Gym Lahore player defeated Indian opponents in both the semi-final and final.
- The victory highlights the growing depth and development of pickleball in Pakistan.
- Waseem also earned praise for inviting his Indian opponents onto the podium after the final.
Waseem Delivers Landmark Result for Pakistan
Zain Waseem's incredible run to the Pickleball World Cup gold medal is a testament to the quiet, determined growth of pickleball within Pakistan. His journey to the top was particularly thrilling, marked by victories over two formidable Indian players – first in the semifinal, then again in the high-stakes final.
The Shapes Gym Lahore player claimed gold in the men’s 30-plus singles category at the 2026 Pickleball World Cup in Da Nang, Vietnam. His route to the title was particularly notable, with Waseem defeating Indian players in both the semi-final and final. The result marks an important moment for Pakistani pickleball and puts Waseem at the centre of one of the country’s biggest international achievements in the sport.
A Sign of Pakistan's Pickleball Growth
Khawaja Nadeem Ahmed, owner of Shapes Gym, praised Waseem for bringing honour to Pakistan through both his performance and conduct. “Winning a gold medal at the Pickleball World Cup is a great achievement.”
Nadeem has now called on Punjab Sports Minister Malik Faisal Khokhar, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to officially recognise Waseem’s achievement and provide a substantial reward.
According to Nadeem, such recognition could help encourage more Pakistani athletes to pursue international success in pickleball. Coaching, competitive opportunities and player development have increasingly helped create a foundation for Pakistani players to compete on the international stage.
Waseem Shows Respect After World Cup Final
Waseem’s actions after the final added another layer to his memorable tournament. Following his victory, he invited his Indian opponents to join him on the podium, choosing to celebrate alongside the players he had just defeated. The gesture carried added significance given the wider tensions that have often shaped sporting encounters between India and Pakistan.
Waseem's decision offered a reminder that competitive rivalry and mutual respect can exist side by side. His performance secured Pakistan a World Cup gold medal, while his gesture after the final demonstrated the sportsmanship that can make an achievement resonate beyond the result itself.
For Pakistani pickleball, Waseem’s victory represents more than another medal. It provides a major international milestone and a moment that could help bring greater attention to the country’s growing presence in the sport.
