Obituary: Senator Syed Dilawar Abbas

The ITF is saddened to learn of the death of Senator Syed Dilawar Abbas, the former President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation.

Senator Abbas served back-to-back terms as President of Pakistan’s National Association, holding office from 2002-2006 and then 2007-2010, a period during which the country’s national tennis centre was established.

The national tennis centre, named The S. Dilawar Abbas PTF Tennis Complex, was opened in Islamabad in 2008 and continues to thrive, providing high-level clay and hard courts.

A keen sportsman having played cricket to college/university standard, Abbas was an Honorary Lifelong Patron of the Pakistan Tennis Federation. He was also Senior Vice-President of the Asian Tennis Federation and a serving member of the ITF Constitutional Committee.

ITF President David Haggerty said: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the sad passing of Senator Syed Dilawar Abbas. The ITF and the tennis family extend its condolences to the Pakistan Tennis Federation and the Senator’s family.

“Mr Abbas was a hugely important and significant figure within the tennis and sporting landscape within Pakistan, epitomised by the national tennis centre being named in his honour. His presence will be sorely missed.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this exceptionally difficult time.”