BREAKING NEWS! Farag To Replace Ashour In World Series Finals

Egyptian Ali Farag is set to make his first ever appearance at the PSA Dubai World Series Finals after three-time World Champion Ramy Ashour today withdrew from the season-ending event due to illness.


Ashour, who won the 2007 and 2013 World Series Finals, had finished eighth on the PSA Road To Dubai Standings to secure the final place at the lucrative $160,000 tournament.


He will now be replaced by Farag, who finished ninth on the Road To Dubai Standings, with the 25-year-old taking his place in Group B alongside Gregory Gaultier, James Willstrop and Mohamed ElShorbagy.


The PSA Dubai World Series Finals takes place from June 6-10, 2017 with all of the action to be shown live on SQUASHTV (rest of world) and EUROSPORT PLAYER (Europe only).


Group stage matches will take place at 3:00pm, 3:45pm, 16:45pm and 17:30pm (Group A) and 21:30pm, 22:15pm, 23:15pm and 00:00am (Group B) between June 6-8 with the semi-finals due to take place from 22:00pm on June 9. The finals will commence at 22:00pm local time on June 10.


PSA Dubai World Series Finals - Groups


Women - Group A

Camille Serme

Raneem El Welily

Nouran Gohar

Alison Waters


Women - Group B

Nour El Sherbini

Laura Massaro

Nicol David

Sarah-Jane Perry


Men - Group A

Karim Abdel Gawad

Marwan Elshorbagy

Nick Matthew

Simon Rosner


Men - Group B

Gregory Gaultier

Mohamed Elshorbagy

James Willstrop

Ali Farag

To raise the game, a need for change; vote Nyam Pam Dareng for president Nigeria Squash Federation

To raise the game, a need for change; vote Nyam Pam Dareng for president Nigeria Squash Federation

A sponsored post:

MY PROFILE:
Nyam Pam Dareng is my name.
A native of DU, in Jos south LGA of Plateaue state.

I was born on the 19th of December, 1962
- A serving member of Plateau State House of Assembly representing Jos South. (PLHA) 2015 - TILL DATE

- Chairman, Plateau State Squash Racket Association ( 2007 - till date)

- Member Nigeria Squash Federation (under the grassroot development slot 2013 - 2017)


ACHIEVEMENTS:

Proprietor of Nyam P. Dareng Squash Academy, Jos since 2006.

Sponsored two players to WINNERS TAKES ALL tournament in minna, Niger State where the male and female categories were won by my players with two (2) cars as the prize;

Renovated the squash court at the Presidential lodge in plateau state.

Sponsored  two (2) of plateau state  coaches to NIS, Lagos for coaching course;

Renovated one of the courts at jos township stadium.

MEMBERSHIP:

Member Plateau Club 1921;

Member Rayfield golf club;

Member IBB Club. Abuja

COURSE ATTENDED

Commonwealth Business Forum, Trinidad and Tobago

Canada and Nigeria Forum - Canada

Good governance and leadership course - Canada

Legislative Procedure, Jos plateau State - Jos business school.

Pressure Off' For Serme Ahead of World Series Finals

Despite enjoying the most successful season of her career to date France's Camille Serme says the pressure is off ahead of next month's PSA Dubai World Series Finals which takes place at Dubai Opera June 6-10.

The 28-year-old, who finished top of the PSA Road to Dubai Standings, has been in scintillating form this season – winning the U.S. Open and Tournament of Champions alongside the Cleveland Classic - but is going into the season-ending event with 'no expectations'.

“This has been the best season of my career so far," said Serme. 

"I’ve never played at that level before so it’s exciting for me and I’m very excited to be going back to Dubai again. 

"Especially as I’m ranked No.1 on the Road to Dubai Standings. But I’m not going there with any pressure or expectations. I think the Women’s Tour is incredibly tough at the moment and you never know who is going to win an event."

The World No.3 was knocked out in the group stage at last year’s tournament and admits she will have to be mentally ready for a fast start in the best-of-three group stage format.

“The World Series Finals is different from other events – you have to be ready physically and mentally from the very first point," she said.

"There are so many players capable of winning it and we have very tough matches from the first day so I just want to go there and enjoy my squash for the week.

"It was a great tournament last year and I think it will be another great event this year.

“My target is just to do better than last year and hopefully reach the semis – if I can do better than that will be a bonus.”

The PSA Dubai World Series Finals takes place from June 6-10, 2017 with the tournament match schedule to be announced on Monday June 5. All of the action will be shown live on SQUASHTV (rest of world) and Eurosport Player (Europe only).

Group stage matches will take place at 3:00pm, 3:45pm, 16:45pm and 17:30pm (Group A) and 21:30pm, 22:15pm, 23:15pm and 00:00am (Group B) between June 6-8 with the semi-finals due to take place from 22:00pm on June 9. The finals will commence at 22:00pm local time on June 10.

Tickets for the World Series Finals can be purchased at https://dubaiopera.etixdubai.com/shows/show.aspx?sh=PSAUMB 

Debutants Iraq, Israel & Jamaica Among 28 Nations In Men’s World Championship In France

Debutants Iraq, Israel & Jamaica Among 28 Nations In Men’s World Championship In France

Iraq, Israel and Jamaica will make their debuts in the 2017 WSF Men’s World Team Squash Championship in France where 28 nations will contest the biennial World Squash Federation event.

The championship will be held in Marseille, from 27 November to 3 December, at Modern Squash and Salle Vallier, where the final stages will be presented on two all-glass showcourts.

2013 champions England will defend the title after the 2015 championship, which was due to be staged in Egypt, was postponed.

However hosts France, having beaten England to win the men’s title at the European Team Championships last month, will be strong contenders if mighty Egypt falter in their bid to reclaim the title. France have yet to win the World title, finishing as runners-up in 2003 and 2009.

The 2017 championship entry list features Argentina, Australia, Austria, Canada, Colombia, Czech Republic, Egypt, England, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong China, India, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Jamaica, Kenya, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Scotland, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, USA and Wales.

Gawad Hoping To End ‘Dream’ Season On A High At World Series Finals

Egyptian World No.1 Karim Abdel Gawad says he is relishing the chance to compete in the PSA Dubai World Series Finals for the first time in his career when he will hope to cap a dream year with victory at the season-ending event taking place at Dubai Opera, June 6-10.


The 25-year-old finished top of the PSA Road to Dubai Standings after claiming maximum points at the Qatar Classic and Tournament of Champions during a season that also saw him win the PSA Men's World Championship last November. And after reaching World No.1 for the first time in his career in May 2017, he'll be aiming to secure a remarkable hat-trick next month.


“To be World No.1 and World Champion at the same time is a dream come true,” said Gawad.




“I honestly didn’t expect it. This season has been great but I still have a lot of dreams of course.


“It will be my first time at the World Series Finals so it will be a new experience. I was really close to qualifying last year so I’m really excited to be going there this time and to be playing in such an amazing venue.




“It’s going to be very tough but there’s no pressure on me. I want to go there and enjoy the experience and just try to play my best and see what happens.


"If you put too much pressure on yourself I think you will not perform at 100 per cent.”




This year’s World Series Finals is set to be one of the most competitive ever with the top eight qualifiers on the Men’s and Women’s Road to Dubai Standings battling it out for a share of the $160,000 prize fund.



The tournament features a unique best of three games format throughout the group stages as players battle it out for a place in the knock-out semi-finals and beyond and Gawad admitted the change in set-up will provide a challenge for him.




“The best of three format isn’t great for me because I’m a slow starter," he said.




“I need to work hard to start faster and stronger and will have to adapt my training over the next few weeks.




“In best of three you can’t risk losing the first game – I will try a few things to change my approach and get off to a stronger start but the main aim for me is just to enjoy my first World Series Finals.”




The PSA Dubai World Series Finals takes place from June 6-10, 2017 with the tournament match schedule to be announced on Monday June 5. All of the action will be shown live on SQUASHTV (rest of world) and Eurosport Player (Europe only).


Group stage matches will take place at 3:00pm, 3:45pm, 16:45pm and 17:30pm (Group A) and 21:30pm, 22:15pm, 23:15pm and 00:00am (Group B) between June 6-8 with the semi-finals due to take place from 22:00pm on June 9. The finals will commence at 22:00pm local time on June 10.


Tickets for the World Series Finals can be purchased at https://dubaiopera.etixdubai.com/shows/show.aspx?sh=PSAUMB

World Doubles Championships Attract 12 Nations

World Doubles Championships Attract 12 Nations Hosts England will lead 12 nations that have confirmed entry for the 2017 WSF World Doubles Squash Championships which will take place at the National Squash Centre in Manchester between 1-5 August. The 5th World Doubles Championships, which will feature Men’s, Women’s and Mixed events and will be hosted by England Squash, come just a year after the Australian city of Darwin staged the 2016 championships – in which medals were shared between the hosts, New Zealand, Scotland, India and Malaysia. A record 51 pairs will participate – comprising 17 Men’s, 21 Mixed and 13 Women’s – representing Australia, Canada, Colombia, England, India, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Scotland, South Africa and Wales. FULL STORY ON WSFWORLDDOUBLES.COM

Happy Democracy day Nigeria

Happy Democracy day Nigeria;
 A land of good people, great Nation.

Courtesy : NAIJA SQUASH MEDIA

Pics of Lanre & Yemisi at the finals of the Squash classic

Pics of Lanre & Yemisi with some of the sponsors at the finals of the Squash classic at the Lagos country club squash section 

Yemisi Olatunji triumphs at the just concluded 1st PSPAN squash classic

Yemisi Olatunji triumphs at the just concluded Squash classic defeating Taiwo Ebifemi 3-1 major score in a best of 5 games.

Lanre Abdulrahman Triumphs at the just concluded Squash classic

Olanrewaju Abdulrahman still in form as he triumphs at the just concluded Squash classic held in Lagos.
It was a massive turn up yesterday at the Lagos country club squash section as Lanre played Femi Shedera.

Femi  Shedera

Femi who is just playing in his finals for the first time in the senior category met a much more stronger opponent, Abdulrahman. 

Lanre defeated Femi 3-1 major score in a best of 5 games. 

Congrats Lanre. 

Matthew Focused On Peak Performance At World Series Finals

England’s three-time World Champion Nick Matthew is determined to be in 'peak condition' when the season-ending PSA Dubai World Series Finals gets underway at Dubai Opera between June 6-10.



The former World No.1 – who qualified fifth in the PSA Road to Dubai Standings – was knocked out of the tournament at the group stage last year after struggling to recover from injury in time for the event. 

But the 36-year-old is focused on an improved performance this year as he aims to win a title that has so far eluded him during a glittering career. 

“My goal for the season was to qualify for Dubai – so I’m delighted with that,” said Matthew.


“I had a few injury problems going into the event last year which meant I was lacking match fitness, so I’m doing everything I can to make sure I go there this year feeling sharp.

“There’s no score to settle or anything like that. I know how tough it is to qualify and to make it with one event left was huge and now I'm trying to peak for it and give myself a shot at that title.



“It’s a huge title and one I won’t have many more opportunities to play in and being in the Opera – as the first sport ever – is fantastically exciting for all of us as well.”

The World Series Finals brings together the top eight players from the Men’s and Women’s PSA Road To Dubai Standings to compete in a round-robin best-of-three series for a place in the knockout semi-finals and beyond. 

And with only two players progressing from each group Matthew is expecting a tough challenge from the outset.

“Sometimes my best results have come after a tough first round and the World Series Finals means that you have to start strong," he said, "If you can win the first match you take the pressure off and settle into it.

“The best of three is fast paced and you have to be sharp from day one. The nature of the events means that anyone can win and the groups are really tough, so I expect it to be brutal.”

The PSA Dubai World Series Finals takes place from June 6-10, 2017 with the tournament match schedule to be announced on Monday June 5. All of the action will be shown live on SQUASHTV (rest of world) and Eurosport Player (Europe only).

Group stage matches will take place at 3:00pm, 3:45pm, 16:45pm and 17:30pm (Group A) and 21:30pm, 22:15pm, 23:15pm and 00:00am (Group B) between June 6-8 with the semi-finals due to take place from 22:00pm on June 9. The finals will commence at 22:00pm local time on June 10.

Tickets for the World Series Finals can be purchased at https://dubaiopera.etixdubai.com/shows/show.aspx?sh=PSAUMB

Squash TGIF

Squash Friday.... 

if squash was easy it would be called Tennis

"squash" the only sport that makes you fly ....

Lol... 

Nicol advances to National Squash Championship 2017 final

KUALA LUMPUR, May 25 — National squash queen Datuk Nicol David fulfilled a prevision of going into the National Squash Championship 2017 final by defeating Andrea Lee in the semifinal at the Jalan Duta Squash Centre, today.

Nicol, however, had to exert extra effort when she lost 6-11 in the first set before coming up stronger in the next three sets to win 11-4, 11-4, 11-4 in 31 minutes.

Speaking to reporters after booking her final berth in the premier women’s category, the 33-year-old admitted her opponent showed a convincing performance, especially in the first set.

“In the second set, I knew I had to get in front of her and put the pressure on and keep my consistency in the game.

“In the third and forth set, I think, she (Andrea) was just waiting for the shots to come to her and I just gave more shots at other angles as well as I did not give much space for her to play her game,” the tournament’s top seed said.In another semifinal, Teh Min Jie was shown the exit by Rachel Arnold after losing 4-11, 8-11, 9-11 for the latter to claim her first national championship final spot in her career.

“For the final match tomorrow against Nicol, I will try to give a tough fight and to hang on there for at least 30 minutes of playing,” said Rachel.

Meanwhile, in the premier men’s category, defending champion and top seed Nafiizwan Adnan beat Syafiq Kamal 11-3, 11-2, 12-10 in 27 minutes to set up a final appointment with Ivan Yuen, who eliminated Ng Eain Yow in straight sets of 11-9, 11-8, 11-7.

“I faced Ivan twice three weeks ago in Chennai, India and in the Switzerland Open which I won 3-1 in India and lost 1-3 in Switzerland.

“We will see, both of us want to win and Ivan surely wants to claim his first national title,” said Nafiizwan, the two-time national champion. — Bernama

- See more at: 9SM LINK

Rösner Delighted To Be Competing At World Series Finals

World No.11 Simon Rösner says he is delighted to have qualified for the 2016/17 PSA Dubai World Series Finals where he will compete against the top eight players on the PSA World Tour at Dubai Opera between June 6-10.



Rösner secured seventh place on the PSA Road To Dubai Standings - ahead of former tournament winner Ramy Ashour - courtesy of a quarter-final finish at the El Gouna International and the 29-year-old said he is looking forward to his fourth appearance at the season-ending event.



“I’m amazingly happy to have qualified again," said Rösner.



“To qualify for that stage again is a huge achievement for me. Before El Gouna it was close between three or four players including myself, so to get to the quarters there and secure my place was very pleasing.



“I’ve played there three or four times before so the pressure of making it isn’t there and the nerves of the first time won’t be there this year, but it’s still a huge achievement and an honour to be competing with the best eight players.”



With ten current and former World No.1s set to feature across both the Men’s and Women’s draws this year’s World Series Finals is set to be one of the most competitive yet and with a unique best of three format in use throughout the group stages Rösner knows he will have to be at his best from day one.



“With it being best of three you don’t have much time to get into the match or into the rhythm – you have to be ready from the first point and that makes it pretty special," said the Paderborn-based Rösner.



“I think that’s good for me because I tend to start quite well. There is a different mental challenge because of that though so my game won't change but I will have to work on the mental approach to be ready from the very first second.”



This year’s event will be the first sporting event to ever be held inside the iconic Dubai Opera and the German is looking forward to playing squash there.



“The venue looks pretty stunning and it’s exciting to be playing there," he said.



"Squash can take place in amazing venues and Dubai Opera is another amazing location to add to the list – it’s a privilege to be able to go and compete there.”



The PSA Dubai World Series Finals takes place from June 6-10, 2017 with the tournament match schedule to be announced on Monday June 5. All of the action will be shown live on SQUASHTV (rest of world) and Eurosport Player (Europe only).



Group stage matches will take place at 3:00pm, 3:45pm, 16:45pm and 17:30pm (Group A) and 21:30pm, 22:15pm, 23:15pm and 00:00am (Group B) between June 6-8 with the semi-finals due to take place from 22:00pm on June 9. The finals will commence at 22:00pm local time on June 10.



Tickets for the World Series Finals can be purchased at 9SA LINK

INCLUSIVE Squash weekly Squash sessions for all Disabled people

I found this to be so inspiring.....
Plz do try this out if you are in such category, it will really help strengthen your mind and nerves.

Egyptian El Welily Targets Dubai Final Appearance

After narrowly losing out to England's Laura Massaro in the final of last season's PSA Dubai World Series Finals, Egypt's World No.2 Raneem El Welily says she is targeting a repeat appearance in the title-decider when this year's event gets underway at Dubai Opera between June 6–10.



El Welily – who qualified fourth in the Women’s PSA Road to Dubai Standings – will go up against World No.3 Camille Serme, World No.5 Nouran Gohar and World No.8 Alison Waters in the group stages as she aims to improve on her runner-up finish twelve months ago.



“I’m very excited to be going back to Dubai – I really enjoyed it there last year as it was one of the best set ups I’ve played at and I definitely want to go there and play well again this year,” said El Welily.


“It’s the last tournament of the season and it’s a huge motivation for all of us to try and end the season well. But it's also important to try and enjoy it as much as possible. 

"I would be really happy if I could make it back to the final - but against the top eight players in the world it isn’t going to be easy at all.”

This year’s World Series Finals is set to be one of the most competitive ever with the top eight qualifiers on the Men’s and Women’s Road to Dubai Standings battling it out for a share of an equal $160,000 prize fund inside the Dubai Opera.



But with the tournament dates falling during Ramadan, El Welily admitted she will have to make some adaptations whilst competing.

“I’ve seen the images of the Dubai Opera and I remember playing in a similar venue in Rotterdam in 2011 and I loved that event so I expect the World Series Finals will be phenomenal," she said.



“But this year it will also be during Ramadan so I’m excited to see how that will affect things as well. 

"We will be trying to put as much good food and liquid into our bodies before the fast each day - as athletes it is maybe slightly different as we can sleep a little longer than ordinary people who have to go to work - but I think it will be very interesting.”

The PSA Dubai World Series Finals takes place from June 6-10, 2017 with the tournament match schedule to be announced on Monday June 5. All of the action will be shown live on SQUASHTV (rest of world) and Eurosport Player (Europe only).

Group stage matches will take place at 3:00pm, 3:45pm, 16:45pm and 17:30pm (Group A) and 21:30pm, 22:15pm, 23:15pm and 00:00am (Group B) between June 6-8 with the semi-finals due to take place from 22:00pm on June 9. The finals will commence at 22:00pm local time on June 10.

Tickets for the World Series Finals can be purchased at https://dubaiopera.etixdubai.com/shows/show.aspx?sh=PSAUMB

World Series finals Draw

The draws are out for the in Dubai next month, where the top eight men and women in the World Series standings contest the $160k prize funds. World Series Finals
Camille Serme
 Nour El Sherbini
Raneem El Welily
 Laura Massaro
Nouran Gohar
Nicol David
Alison Waters
Sarah-Jane Perry

Karim Abdel Gawad
Gregory Gaultier
Marwan Elshorbagy
 Mohamed Elshorbagy
Nick Matthew
 James Willstrop
Simon Rosner
 Ramy Ashour

The Pool stages and semi-finals are played best-of-three, with the finals best-of-five. Women’s Group A Women’s Group B
Men’s Group A Men’s Group B
Group A matches start at 15.00 and 21.30 (4 matches each group on 06-08 Jun), semi-finals and finals start at 22.00 on 9th and 10th.
#dubai #wsf #psa
1 day ago   
World Series Finals Standings
With the conclusion of the British Open, the women’s World Series Standings are complete with eight players set for
in June. Dubai’s World Series Finals
France’s tops the list, and is joined by Egyptians English players
replacing the injured Amanda Sobhy) and Malaysia’s
. Camille Serme
Nour El Sherbini, Raneem El WElily and Nouran Gohar,
Laura Massaro, Sarah-Jane Perry and Alisin Waters (
Nicol David
There is still one event to go for the Men, next week’s El Gouna International, but , Karim Abdel Gawad, Mohamed Elshorbagy,  Gregory Gaultier and Nick Matthew, are already assured of their places in the top eight.
Marwan Elshorbagy, James Willstrop and Ramy Ashour look likely to qualify, while
Simon Rosner faces competition from a number of players hoping to overtake him in eighth place. Karim Abdel Gawad, Mohamed Elshorbagy, Gregory Gaultier and Nick Matthew
Marwan Elshorbagy, James Willstrop and Ramy Ashour Simon Rosner

Read more via 9SM LINK

ex squash pros Junior Tourney on channels sport news

Click 9SM LINK to watch the news update on the just concluded ex squash pros Junior tournament on channels tv

ElShorbagy Aiming to Build ‘Own Story’ at PSA Dubai World Series Finals



Ahead of his debut appearance at the season-ending PSA Dubai World Series Finals – which takes place at Dubai Opera June 6-10 - World No.5 Marwan ElShorbagy says he is determined to build on what has been a break-through year and continue carving out his own story after stepping out of elder brother Mohamed's shadow during the 2016/17 PSA World Tour campaign.



The 23-year-old admitted he often used to compare himself to Mohamed - whose 15-month reign as World No.1 came to an end in April - but has switched focus to his own game to find a new lease of life on the court, seeing his own World Ranking go from strength to strength in the process.



“I used to always put myself under pressure because I wanted to achieve as much as him from a young age until one day I realised that I need to be myself,” said ElShorbagy, who broke into the World's top five for the first time in his career last month.



“I have to be the best version of myself. I don’t have to live my brother’s story, I can have my own story."



The Bristol-based Egyptian beat his brother for the first time in his career at this year’s Windy City Open before lightning struck twice as he stormed to victory in their El Gouna International quarter-final fixture.



And with a maiden appearance at the World Series Finals - which features a unique best of three games format throughout the group stages and semi-finals - throwing up the potential for the siblings to meet once again, ElShorbagy is looking forward to stepping foot inside Dubai Opera.



“Of course, we could end up playing each other- it’s difficult for both of us and for our family especially," he said.



“We train every day and we know each other’s games. We talk tactics and support each other when we’re playing other people so it is tactically and emotionally difficult. Every time we play it’s a battle on court but we are best friends off it.



“But the World Series Finals is the climax to the international squash season – it’s one of the biggest moments of the year for squash players so I’m really excited to be playing there.



“While I didn’t qualify last year my brother told me how amazing it was. I feel honoured that we will be the first sportsmen and women to compete in such an iconic place as the Dubai Opera and I am very excited about what this will do for the sport of squash.”



The World Series Finals brings together the top eight players on the Men’s and Women’s PSA Road to Dubai Standings, with points on offer at all World Series tournaments throughout the 2016/17 season.



The PSA Dubai World Series Finals takes place from June 6-10, 2017 with the tournament match schedule to be announced on Monday June 5. All of the action will be shown live on SQUASHTV (rest of world) and Eurosport Player (Europe only).

Group stage matches will take place at 15:00pm, 15:45pm, 16:45pm and 17:30pm (Group A) and 21:30pm, 22:15pm, 23:15pm and 00:00am (Group B) between June 6-8 with the semi-finals due to take place from 22:00pm on June 9. The finals will commence at 22:00pm local time on June 10.

Tickets for the World Series Finals can be purchased at  9SM LINK

Massaro Relishing PSA Dubai World Series Finals Defence

Reigning PSA Dubai World Series Finals Women’s champion, Laura Massaro, says she is relishing the prospect of defending her title when this year’s tournament gets underway at Dubai Opera June 6-10.



Massaro won the 2015/16 World Series Finals in the shadow of the Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building – by twice coming from behind to defeat Raneem El Welily and lift one of the biggest titles of her career.



But the 33-year-old admits she will have to be at her very best to make it back-to-back titles as she expect this year’s tournament to be tougher than ever after the unpredictable nature of the season.



“Last year was an unbelievable experience, to go into a season ending event against the top eight and win is something I’m really proud of," said Massaro.



"It’s arguably the toughest event to win because the level is so high from day one. And this year, going in as defending champ makes it a little different. I know exactly what to expect but I’m really excited.



"I can’t get too far ahead though - I will just go into the pool game trying to play my best and see where it takes me because this year has been the most unique season I’ve ever played in.



"When I first came on Tour players like Sarah Fitz-Gerald, Carol Owens and Cassie Jackman won the big titles and then it shifted to the Grinhams before Nicol (David) dominated.



“But this season there’s been a different winner, different finalists and different names at nearly every major event - which is great for the sport - and shows how high the level is. In Dubai there are eight high quality athletes and we all have different traits, training styles and philosophies.



"I feel proud, as the eldest alongside Nicol in that group, that I’m still staying with the players in what is probably my third era in women’s squash as the game is ever changing."



This year’s World Series Finals features a $160,000 equal prize fund for both the men and women and a unique best of three games format throughout the group stages and semi-finals - before reverting to the traditional best of five format for the final - something which Massaro, who finished third in the Road to Dubai Standings, enjoys.



“You have to come out of the blocks as quick as you can because the first four or five points can be crucial," said the English number one, who will be joined by compatriots Alison Waters and Sarah-Jane Perry in Dubai.



"I enjoy that best of three format and think it was exciting and I’m happy to be back in that line-up.



“It’s great that there’s a good English contingent going this year as well and it will be exciting to have the other girls there as well. As a Brit as well it’s always nice to get a bit of sun and I find that if I can bring a little bit of holiday time and combine it with the squash side that helps me be more relaxed and give my all on court.



“Overall I have great memories from the event last year and the Dubai Opera pictures have looked amazing - to put the glass court there shows how adaptable the sport can be - so I'm really looking forward to it."



The groups for the PSA Dubai World Series Finals will be announced on Monday June 5, with the tournament beginning a day later and lasting up until the finals on Saturday June 10 – all of the action will be shown live on SQUASHTV (rest of world) and Eurosport Player (Europe only).



Tickets for the World Series Finals can be purchased at  9SA LINK

A standard Squash court dimensions

 Picture of a standard Squash court with dimensions .

Exams deny Sivasangari chance to play against Nicol

PETALING JAYA: Youngster S. Sivasangari is disappointed at missing the chance to take on eight-time world champion Nicol David in a competitive match.

The 18-year-old Sivasangari, who is the national No. 4, won’t be competing in the Ohana National Squash Championships, which starts at the NSC Squash Centre in Jalan Duta today, due to her final year examinations.

The world No. 60, who’s studying at Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar (KTJ) in Mantin, Negri Sembilan, has two more papers to go.

“Its unfortunate that I can’t compete in this year’s national meet because I’m still busy with my exams, which will only end on June 1,” said Sivasangari, who made the semi-finals last year.

“It would have been nice to play as Nicol is back after a while. I did think about taking a break between studies to give it a go. But I’ve got two more papers left, so it’s better that I just focus on them and finish my exams first.”

Without Sivasangari, it will be down to the likes of Rachel Arnold and Andrea Lee to challenge Nicol.

The Penangite, who has missed the last three years of the national meet, is the red-hot favourite to bag her fourth national title.

She has a first round bye and faces either Aika Azman or Chan Yiwen in the quarter-finals on Tuesday.

World No. 92 Andrea, who is the joint third-fourth seed, is expected to meet Nicol in the semi-finals.

In the men’s event, national No. 1 Mohd Nafiizwan Adnan is the top seed and favourite to clinch his third national crown.

He meets Ng Jo Wen in the first round and probably former champion and national coach Ong Beng Hee in the quarter-finals.

National No. 2 Ivan Yuen and youngsters Mohd Syafiq Kamal and Ng Eain Yow are the other challengers for the men’s title.

GROUP OF DEATH!!Gaultier, Ashour, ElShorbagy And Willstrop To Meet In Mouthwatering World Series Finals Draw

Gaultier, Ashour, ElShorbagy And Willstrop To Meet In Mouthwatering World Series Finals Draw



The 2016/17 PSA Dubai World Series Finals - taking place at Dubai Opera June 6-10 - looks certain to deliver a blockbuster climax to the squash season after a quartet of former World No.1s in the guise of Gregory Gaultier, Ramy Ashour, Mohamed ElShorbagy and James Willstrop were drawn together in a mouthwatering group stage.



The lucrative tournament, which has $160,000 on offer in both the Men's and Women's draws, will see the players face off against each other in a round-robin best-of-three series from June 6-8 for a place in the knockout semi-finals and beyond - with only two players progressing from each group.



Current World No.1 Karim Abdel Gawad, the man who topped the PSA Road To Dubai Standings, finds himself going up against another former No.1, Nick Matthew, in-form Marwan ElShorbagy and Germany's hard-hitting Simon Rosner in the second group - with both Gawad and ElShorbagy making their debut appearance at the prestigious tournament.



The five day event brings together the cream of squash talent and the Women's Group Draw has pitted three World Championship winners - Egypt's two-time winner Nour El Sherbini, Malaysia's eight-time winner Nicol David and 2013 World Champion, and defending World Series Finals Champion, Laura Massaro - alongside debutant Sarah-Jane Perry.



While the second group will see Camille Serme - the Frenchwoman who topped the Women's Road To Dubai Standings, Egypt's first ever women's World No.1 Raneem El Welily, 19-year-old Nouran Gohar and England's Alison Waters clash for a place in the coveted knock-out stages.



When the Group stages get underway on June 6, Gaultier - who has gone 27 matches undefeated in 2017 - Ashour, ElShorbagy and Willstrop will take to court during the day's second session of play - beginning 9:30pm local time - alongside El Sherbini, Massaro, David and Perry.



Both Group As will be in action from 3:00pm local time.



The PSA Dubai World Series Finals takes place from June 6-10, 2017 with the tournament match schedule to be announced on Monday June 5. All of the action will be shown live on SQUASHTV (rest of world) and Eurosport Player (Europe only).



Group stage matches will take place at 15:00pm, 15:45pm, 16:45pm and 17:30pm (Group A) and 21:30pm, 22:15pm, 23:15pm and 00:00am (Group B) between June 6-8 with the semi-finals due to take place from 22:00pm on June 9. The finals will commence at 22:00pm local time on June 10.



Tickets for the World Series Finals can be purchased at  9SM Ticket Link


2016/17 PSA Dubai World Series Final - Group Draw



Women's Group A

Camille Serme

Raneem El Welily

Nouran Gohar

Alison Waters



Women's Group B

Nour El Sherbini

Laura Massaro

Nicol David

Sarah-Jane Perry



Men's Group A

Karim Abdel Gawad

Marwan Elshorbagy

Nick Matthew

Simon Rosner



Men's Group B

Gregory Gaultier

Mohamed Elshorbagy

James Willstrop

Ramy Ashour

Gaultier Captures Sixth Successive Title After Bellevue Classic Triumph

Frenchman Gregory Gaultier lifted his sixth PSA World Tour title in a row after he defeated Egypt’s World No.8 Ali Farag in the final of the inaugural Pacific Market International Bellevue Squash Classic - a win which will also see him return to the top of the World Rankings next month to break his own record as the oldest ever World No.1.

The 34-year-old was meeting Farag in a second successive final after the pair contested the Grasshopper Cup final a fortnight ago and the man from Egypt pushed Gaultier to tie-breaks in the opening two games, with Gaultier fighting back from a game ball down in the opener and then four game balls down in the second to take the lead.

Farag, who had hit a number of sublime winners throughout the match, continued to perform well in the third as he went 6-3 up, but Gaultier dug in once more to move back out in front and he sealed the win on his first championship ball to make it 27 matches undefeated, while he has now gone 10 matches without dropping a single game.

Gaultier’s victory - his 40th PSA World Tour title in what was his 79th final - also sees him win over $25,000, which is a record amount for a squash tournament containing a 16-man draw

The Frenchman’s incredible run of form in 2017 has seen him add the Bellevue Classic crown to successive title wins at the Swedish Open, Windy City Open, British Open, El Gouna International and Grasshopper Cup and he will overtake current World No.1 Karim Abdel Gawad to top the World Rankings on June 1.

"I am not going to say that it was easy to keep fresh every day, I had to find the motivation every day, but I did find it, and every day I was happy to come and play," said Gaultier. 

"I just forgot about being tired, about the little aches and pains, and just pushed myself on the day.

"Hard luck to Ali. It's been two times in a row, but he showed real consistency. He's been up and down this season, but this month he proved that he is starting to raise the bar.

 It's very difficult to beat this talented player."

Farag, who will move into the world’s top five next month, said: "Obviously I am disappointed today, but I'm happy with how I finished the season reaching two finals in a row.

"I had a good feeling today. The minute I stepped off court at the Grasshopper final, I had a game plan, and I couldn’t wait to try it on court. I think I was unlucky in the first game, I was playing well, doing the right things, but I was not sharp enough. 

"In the second, I was doing all the right things, then I’m not sure what went first, the mind or the body. I never gave up, kept fighting in the 3rd, but he was too confident by then."

Result - Final: 2017 Pacific Market International Bellevue Squash Classic

[1] Gregory Gaultier (FRA) bt [3] Ali Farag (EGY) 3-0: 12-10, 12-10, 11-8 (52m)

Inside the glass box: See why squash is an incredible sport

The door shuts and you find yourself in a glass box with your opponent. There’s a ball flying every which way at speeds topping 100 mph. To some, this may sound like the beginning of a nightmare. To 10-time Swiss national squash champion Nicolas Mueller, it's bliss.

• Nicolas was among the world’s best squash players who competed in New York City’s iconic Grand Central Station at the J.P Morgan Tournament of Champions earlier this year. Unlike in tennis, squash players can hit the ball off any wall, in any direction. It's a true 360-degree sport. In the video below, VRtually There brings you court-side for the tournament to feel the intensity of the sport in VR.
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  Jesse Ryan | USA TODAY NETWORK
  The door shuts and you find yourself in a glass box with your opponent. There’s a ball flying every which way at speeds topping 100 mph. To some, this may sound like the beginning of a nightmare. To 10-time Swiss national squash champion Nicolas Mueller, it's bliss.The door shuts and you find yourself in a glass box with your opponent. There’s a ball flying every which way at speeds topping 100 mph. To some, this may sound like the beginning of a nightmare. To 10-time Swiss national squash champion Nicolas Mueller, it's bliss.Nicolas was among the world’s best squash players who competed in New York City’s iconic Grand Central Station at the J.P Morgan Tournament of Champions earlier this year. Unlike in tennis, squash players can hit the ball off any wall, in any direction. It's a true 360-degree sport. In the video below, VRtually There brings you court-side for the tournament to feel the intensity of the sport in VR.

 Nicolas was among the world’s best squash players who competed in New York City’s iconic Grand Central Station at the J.P Morgan Tournament of Champions earlier this year. Unlike in tennis, squash players can hit the ball off any wall, in any direction. It's a true 360-degree sport. In the video below, VRtually There brings you court-side for the tournament to feel the intensity of the sport in VR.

Often, players only have only milliseconds to make tough judgement calls. They must be physically strong enough to hit the ball and aerobically fit enough to race around the court. It’s a mentally and physically grueling game that requires players to always think two or three shots ahead. The focus and stamina required has its rewards. Nicolas fell in love with how the sport forces him to confront his strengths and weaknesses.

“You get to know yourself when you’re on the squash court,” he says.

Sharing the same space with opponents adds a unique beauty to how the game is played. There are two competitors breathing down each other’s necks, but they also most move to allow their opponent access to the ball. In a sense, these matches resemble a fast-pasted, dynamic dance.

Step into the ballroom in the video above.

For the ideal experience, view in 360 degrees on your mobile phone or in VR headsets such as Google cardboard or Daydream. Subscribe to VRtually There on YouTube and browse the “Virtual Reality” section of the USA TODAY app (iOS | Android) to catch three new episodes every week.