Hull of a boost for WSA as female prize fund rises to £100k
The prize fund on offer to women players in this year’s Allam British Open has been increased to £100,000.
Title sponsor Dr Assem Allam and England Squash and Racketball announced the cash boost today, meaning that female players from across the world will be competing in Hull’s Sports Arena in May for one of the largest prize pots on the WSA World Tour.
England Squash and Racketball’s Operations Director, Jim Lord, said: “We are delighted to have received additional investment from Dr Allam, our very generous and supportive title partner. This additional investment will go directly to the women, increasing their total prize fund to $100k.
“We are determined to work in partnership to influence equality in our sport and hope to play a pivotal role in raising prize money and the profile of the women’s game.”
Dr. Allam added: “I am very pleased to be able to support women’s squash. I am committed to ensuring the increase of the women’s prize money in both practical and financial terms.
“The women’s final last year was of an exceptionally high standard and I am thrilled to be able to show my ongoing support to the women’s tour. After all, female squash players play the best of five games the same as their male counterparts!”
He didn’t say the words “Unlike tennis” where the women play only best-of-three matches in the Grand Slams.
Women’s Squash Association Chief Operating Officer Kim Creamer said: “We are delighted Dr Allam and ESR have increased the prize money for the women. It not only sends a strong message for the future of the women’s game inching one step closer to parity in prize money, but also, in this WSA’s 30th Anniversary year, it demonstrates yet another positive sign.
“This will help to raise the profile of the elite game and shows a commitment to encourage the participation of inspiring young female athletes that can only strengthen the sport in the years to come.”
The British Open will be held between May 12-18 in Hull’s Indoor Sports Arena. Tickets start from just £10 and are available now from www.ticketmaster.com
Picture courtesy of britishopensquash.net