Aisam suffers first-round loss at Australian Open

Pakistan's lone flag-bearer in the international tennis arena, Aisam-ul-haq-Qureshi, suffered the worst possible start to the 2016 season, crashing out in the first round of the Australian Open men's doubles event on Thursday.

Aisam and partner Jonathan Marray of Britain were up against Bruno Soares of Brazil and Jamie Murray of Britain. Soares, ranked 22 in the doubles ranking, and Jamie, the elder brother of Andy Murray, were too good for their opponents, sweeping past them 6-3, 6-4, in 78 minutes. Aisam and Marray were guilty of making too many unforced errors and not being able to hold serve just when they were finding some rhythm in the second set.

The first-round loss was Aisam's worst showing at the Australian Open since 2010 after the Pakistan pro made it to the 3rd round of 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 tournaments. The 35-year-old will now team up with Yaroslava Shvedova of Kazakhstan in the mixed doubles event.