Scotland No.1 Greg Lobban is applying for Australian citizenship as he bids to reach the LA 2028 Olympics and admitted to an “incredibly hard decision”.
Scottish Squash said the world No.22 had officially entered the process of obtaining Australian citizenship by opting out of the upcoming European Team Championships. It comes 25 years after fellow Scot Peter Nicol switched allegiances to England.
Central to Lobban’s connection to Australia is his family: he is married to Australian-born Donna Urquhart (now Donna Lobban), a former world No. 13. The couple married in 2018.
Squash Australia CEO Robert Donaghue said: “Greg and Donna have long been a part of the Squash community in Australia, and we look forward to continuing our strong relationship with them and supporting Greg in this next exciting chapter of his Squash career.”
The significance of Lobban’s decision extends beyond personal ambition. With squash confirmed for inclusion at LA 2028, this marks the most notable national allegiance switch in the sport yet ahead of its Olympic debut.
Lobban’s move follows in the footsteps of Nicol, the great Scottish player who famously switched to represent England in 2001 amid debates over support structures and career opportunities.
Lobban has represented Scotland on numerous occasions, securing 16 PSA titles and five Scottish National Championship titles.
Among his many achievements, a career highlight came in 2022 when, alongside Rory Stewart, he claimed a bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Paul Bell, Scottish Squash’s Head of Performance and Pathway said: “Greg will be a big loss for Scottish Squash but as the focus for every squash player now shifts towards the Olympics, there is no doubt this is a great opportunity for Greg.”
Lobban said: “I would like to thank Scottish Squash for their unwavering support throughout my squash career.
“All of my favourite memories as a squash player to date have been representing Scotland at major events like the European Team Championships, World Team Championships and at the Commonwealth Games.
“This has been an incredibly hard decision to make but one that I feel is best for me, my family and life post squash career.”