From BJO to British Open and a host of talking point stories featuring a year to forget for one star Egyptian
10- County Scene: Delving deep inside the future of squash
We all know there remains a growing uncertainty on the future of squash. While the elite game forges a seemingly upward trajectory, grass roots remains in limbo as the sport fights to stay relevant.
9-World Squash Officiating denies referees told to avoid ‘yes lets’
In February, Lee Drew says there is a “misconception” among players that squash officials have been instructed to avoid awarding lets on the PSA World Tour.
8- British Open Squash 2023: Mohamed ElShorbagy beaten in Birmingham thriller
Resurgent Egyptian Karim Abdel Gawad turned from an evening entertainer to matinee villain as home hope was ousted in thriller.
7- Mostafa Asal: I don’t want squash played by pro dancers in silence
The Egyptian revealed his pride at being spoken about in the same breath as Jansher and Jahangir Khan.
6- My squash training secrets by Nick Matthew
This article on the former world champ’s methods which saw him reach the top of the game, continues to be one of our most read – even 10 years on.
5- Nick Matthew exclusive: ‘Coaches who try to influence referees should be banned’
In January, Nick Matthew attended the British Junior Open and came away with many observations ‘which caused me concern. But let me begin with some positives.’
4- ‘Extraordinary’: Mostafa Asal under fire after ‘chop on forehead’
In May, former World No.1 Mostafa Asal became embroiled in yet more match controversy after clips were posted on social media of the Egyptian grabbing an opponent’s hand mid-rally and a “chop on the forehead” to another player during his run to the World Squash Championship semi-finals.
3- Mostafa Asal: the boy of extremes who has polarised squash
Our view in March… Having a balanced view of squash’s most schismatic star Mostafa Asal is impossible. He polarises opinion like no other player in the game’s history. He demands attention. Ignoring him is not an option.
2- Squash is an Olympic sport: Looking back and forwards to LA
The sport rejoiced, The players and officials spoke and we covered it all as squash readies itself for a five year build-up to the LA Games in 2028.
1- ‘Mostafa Asal is such a talent, but now’s the time to finally grow up’
The three-time world champion Nick Matthew spoke to Squash Mad in March on squash’s biggest controversy and says no one is winning from the World No.1’s divisive fan split.