Doha — Diego Elias has contradicted squash’s tour body for the reason for his withdrawal from the Qatar Classic as he also appeared to blame world No.1 Mostafa Asal for a knee injury which is likely to keep him off court for several months.
The PSA had originally stated that Elias picked up an injury in training and wouldn’t be defending his title in Doha this week.
But Elias confirmed that his injury was occurred during the recent Egyptian Open final, which Asal won.
“I have read what’s been said about my withdrawal from the Qatar Classic,” said Elias. The PSA has seemingly corrected itself on an updated news article.
“The post said I was inured accidentally in training. I’m sure this was an honest mistake but I want to correct it as it is inaccurate.”
Elias’ injury appears to relate to an incident in the third game of the final, with Asal leading 2-0 and 9-8 and on the verge of the title.
The Peruvian looked to have lost his footing and slipped as he went to round Asal. Elias was given a stroke.
In the same statement, Elias seemed to direct the cause of injury at Asal’s door.
“I’m sure I speak for others as well when I say we all want things to be highly competitive but within limits and the rules so others don’t get injured like me,” he added.
Elias will undergo knee surgery and said he will be out for a few months.
Despite pulling out due to the Egyptian Open incident, it is reported that Elias played in exhibition matches last week, just two days after the Giza final.
Asal will be top seed in the men’s tournament.