Lahore, July 18: Pakistan's tennis star, Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi has got engaged in a colourful ceremony in his hometown Lahore, with the media giving extensive coverage to the event.
One of the most eligible bachelors in Pakistan, Aisam, 31, got engaged to Faha Akmal Makhdoom, a Pakistani British citizen based in the United Kingdom and chosen by the tennis star's family.
The couple will get married in December this year. "It is a big moment for me and I am very happy," a beaming Aisam, dressed in a three-piece suit, told the media at the engagement ceremony, which was attended by family friends, relatives and a few selected people on Saturday.
In a country where cricketers rule the roost in terms of popularity and adulation, Aisam has become a household name in Pakistan due to his exploits on the court.
Reaching the final of the US Open last year along with doubles partner, India's Rohan Bopanna also made headlines.
"I am so happy and I am looking forward to December," Faha, dressed in a graceful pink Garara, told reporters.
"My parents have told me that marriages are made in heaven and I am confident we will hit it off as husband and wife and as close friends," she said.
Faha lives in Ipswich and has done her BSC honours in Psychology from the University of Essex.
Aqeel Khan, Pakistan's number two tennis player, quipped that Faha would now help Aisam cross the threshold of international tennis and help him in becoming number one.
Aisam, who leaves next month to play on the international circuit with Bhopanna before taking part in the US Open, said he wanted to win a Grand Slam before his marriage.
"It will be the perfect gift for my wedding," he said. PTI
