Mighty Malaysian bids for sixth title
By NATHAN CLARKE
Five-time champion Nicol David says she is excited to compete in the illustrious Allam British Open later this month when the ‘Wimbledon of Squash’ gets under way in Hull’s Airco Arena on March 21 in what will be the last PSA World Series tournament of the women’s 2015-16 season.
This season’s Series has been one of the most competitive ever on the PSA World Tour with David, World No.1 Laura Massaro, former World No.1 Raneem El Welily and Egyptian sensation Nour El Sherbini all having tasted success in recent months.
With the likes of defending champion Camille Serme, Tournament of Champions runner-up Amanda Sobhy and Egyptian’s Nouran Gohar and Omneya Abdel Kawy also competing in the British Open mix, David is preparing for a huge challenge.
“It is exciting times for squash at present to have everyone pushing each other to perform at their best each time we compete with each other,” said David.
“That’s the challenge that drives me to push harder in my training and to prepare for battle. But this year is another new year and I’ll approach the tournament the way I do each time – that is to focus on my first round match then take it from there.”
After lifting just one World Series title in the last 12 months, December’s Hong Kong Open, David will be hoping to return to winning ways in Hull and lift the special trophy once again.
“The prestige of this event is the highlight for me and to be part of the British Open every year is truly special,” said David.
“It is the longest running squash tournament in the history of the sport and every player is gunning to win that title to make their mark in the squash world.
“It is such a thrilling experience winning this title knowing you’re part of an elite group of legendary squash players who have put their name on this trophy.
“The British Open was probably seen as the highest regard before the World title was introduced so it does carry a lot of weight winning this tournament.”
The 2016 Allam British Open, PSA World Series tournament, takes place in Hull, England from Saturday March 19 to Sunday March 27. Qualification rounds will take place at the University of Hull on March 19-20 while the main draw action will be played at the Airco Arena from March 21..
Tickets for the 2016 Allam British Open can be booked online at www.isportstore.com, by telephone on (+44) 0 844 8797 949 or, for more information, email [email protected]
Picture by STEVE LINE (www.squashpics.com) courtesy of PSA