Thread by @faizanlakhani

🧵 THREAD:
Dive into the extraordinary journey of Roshan Khan - a pioneer of Pakistan’s squash dynasty. From humble beginnings to becoming a champion and inspiring future generation, his story is one of resilience, passion, and unmatched dedication. #SquashLegend #Pakistan

Roshan Khan: A name that echoes through the halls of squash history. Born in Nawakille, near Peshawar, on November 26, 1929, he became the third king of the Khan Dynasty, following in the footsteps of the great Hashim Khan. 🇵🇰 #SquashLegend

Raised in a family deeply rooted in squash, Roshan’s father, Faizullah Khan, and maternal grandfather, Abdul Majeed Khan, were prominent players in the Indian subcontinent. It was natural that Roshan found his calling in this sport. 🏸 #Squash

His early career was marked by hardships. After moving to Karachi, he faced extreme poverty, often living on the streets. But his passion for squash remained unwavering, and soon, his fortunes began to change.

Inspired by his elder brother Nasrullah Khan, who later coached British World Champion Jonah Barrington, Roshan's passion for squash began early, propelling him towards a dream of becoming a world champion. #Inspiration #FamilyLegacy

In 1949, Roshan reached the final of the inaugural Pakistan Open but lost to the legendary Hashim Khan. However, from 1951 to 1953, the Pakistan Open title belonged to Roshan, a testament to his resilience and skill. 🎖️ #SquashKing

Roshan's breakthrough came when the Pakistan Navy recognized his talent, allowing him to compete internationally. He gained fame by winning the Dunlop Championship, defeating Egypt's Mahmoud El Karim. This victory announced his entry onto the global squash stage.

In 1956, Roshan Khan faced Hashim Khan in the final of the British Open, a match that ended in defeat. But the following year, he made history by defeating Hashim, ending his six-year reign and clinching the 1957 British Open title. 🏆 #Victory

Roshan’s triumph at the 1957 British Open was historic. Despite an injury, he staged a dramatic comeback after losing the first game to win the next three. It was his first and only British Open title, marking him as a formidable champion.

He went on to win the North American Open in 1958, 1960, and 1961 and also became a two-time Canadian Open champion. His elegance and artistry on the court captivated audiences worldwide. #SquashGreat

Roshan's stroke play earned him a massive fan following in the USA, where his exquisite style left a lasting impact on squash enthusiasts. His game was an art form, often described as one of the most beautiful the sport had ever seen. 🎨 #SquashArt

Though his career was often overshadowed by contemporaries Hashim and Azam Khan, Roshan’s talent was undeniable. His matches against these squash titans were legendary, defining an era in the sport. 🏸 #SquashLegends

A devoted father, Roshan, nurtured his sons Torsam and Jahangir Khan in the sport. Tragically, Torsam passed away at 27 during a tournament in 1979. This loss was a heavy blow to Roshan.

Despite his grief, Roshan was encouraged by his nephew Rehmat Khan to support his younger son, Jahangir Khan, who later became the greatest squash player of all time, winning 555 consecutive matches! #JahangirKhan #SquashGOAT

Initially reluctant to let Jahangir pursue squash, fearing another tragedy, Roshan eventually supported his son’s dream. Jahangir’s victories brought new hope and pride to the Khan family.

Roshan's contributions to squash were immense. He won titles like the Egyptian Open, the Australian World Series, and the National Professional Championship, drawing international acclaim. #SquashChampion

🇵🇰 In recognition of his achievements, he was awarded the Pride of Performance by the President of Pakistan in 1960. A fitting honor for a man who played such a vital role in shaping Pakistan’s squash legacy. 🏅 #PrideOfPakistan

Despite a persistent knee injury that hampered his career, Roshan's spirit never wavered. He retired in 1963 but remained a revered figure in the squash world, known for his skill, perseverance, and sportsmanship. #Sportsmanship

🇵🇰 His journey from extreme poverty to global recognition is a testament to his dedication and resilience. Roshan Khan’s story is one of overcoming adversity and leaving an indelible mark on the sport. 💪 #Resilience

Though he retired in 1963, his influence in the squash world continued through his son Jahangir, who became a global ambassador for the sport, carrying forward Roshan's legacy. #SquashLegacy

Roshan Khan passed away on January 6, 2006, at the age of 78, but his contributions to squash and his role in nurturing future champions will always be remembered. #RememberingRoshanKhan

His story is not just one of squash but also of a father's love, the loss of a son, and the triumph of another. A tale of hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. #SquashHistory

Roshan Khan's legacy will forever remain a cornerstone of squash history, a story of passion, skill, and indomitable spirit. Rest in peace, champion. #RIPRoshanKhan #SquashLegend