Who Are Some Famous Female Squash Players?
Squash is a fast-paced and exciting racket sport that requires skill, strategy and fitness. It is played by two or four players who hit a small rubber ball against the walls of a four-sided court. Squash has a long and rich history, dating back to the 19th century in England, where it evolved from an older game called rackets. Squash has also produced some of the greatest female athletes in the world, who have dominated the sport with their talent, passion and achievements. In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the most famous female squash players of all time, who have left their mark on the game and inspired generations of players.
Nicol David
Nicol David is widely regarded as the greatest female squash player ever, and one of the best athletes in Malaysia’s history. She holds the record for the most World Championship titles (eight) and the longest reign as the world number one (109 consecutive months). She also won five British Open titles, nine Asian Squash Championships, and two Commonwealth Games gold medals. Nicol David started playing squash at the age of five, and became the first player to win the World Junior Championship twice, in 1999 and 2001. She turned professional in 2000, and won her first World Championship title in 2005. She then dominated the sport for the next decade, winning seven more World Championships and reaching the final of every major tournament. Nicol David was known for her incredible fitness, speed, agility, and consistency. She was also admired for her sportsmanship, humility, and charity work. She retired from professional squash in 2019, after a remarkable career that earned her many accolades and awards, including the World Squash Association Player of the Year (seven times), the Malaysian Sportswoman of the Year (eight times), and the Order of Merit from the IOC12
Sarah Fitz-Gerald
Sarah Fitz-Gerald is one of the most successful and influential female squash players in history. She won five World Championship titles and two British Open titles, as well as three Commonwealth Games gold medals and a record 65 PSA Tour titles. She also reached the world number one ranking in 1996, and held it for a total of 40 months. Sarah Fitz-Gerald started playing squash at the age of eight, and won the World Junior Championship in 1987. She turned professional in 1988, and won her first World Championship title in 1996. She then went on to win four more World Championships, in 1997, 1998, 2001, and 2002. She also won the British Open in 2001 and 2002, and the Commonwealth Games in 1998 and 2002. Sarah Fitz-Gerald was known for her power, accuracy, and mental toughness. She was also a pioneer in the sport, as she helped establish the Women’s International Squash Players Association (WISPA) and advocated for equal prize money and recognition for female players. She retired from professional squash in 2003, after winning the gold medal at the Manchester Commonwealth Games. She was inducted into the World Squash Hall of Fame in 2004, and the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 20071
Susan Devoy
Susan Devoy is one of the most dominant and decorated female squash players of all time. She won four World Championship titles and eight British Open titles, as well as two World Team Championships and 11 New Zealand National Championships. She also reached the world number one ranking in 1984, and held it for a record 105 consecutive months. Susan Devoy started playing squash at the age of 14, and won the New Zealand National Championship at the age of 15. She turned professional in 1981, and won her first British Open title in 1984. She then went on to win seven more British Open titles, in 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1990, 1991, and 1992. She also won the World Championship in 1985, 1987, 1988, and 1990. Susan Devoy was known for her skill, speed, and stamina. She was also respected for her fair play, leadership, and dedication. She retired from professional squash in 1992, after winning her eighth British Open title. She was inducted into the World Squash Hall of Fame in 1998, and the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 1990. She was also appointed as the New Zealand Race Relations Commissioner in 2013, and the Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 19981
Nour El Sherbini
Nour El Sherbini is one of the current stars and leaders of women’s squash. She has won four World Championship titles and three British Open titles, as well as two World Team Championships and six Egyptian National Championships. She is also the reigning world number one, and has held the top spot for a total of 38 months. Nour El Sherbini started playing squash at the age of six, and became the youngest ever player to win the World Junior Championship at the age of 13, in 2009. She then repeated the feat in 2012, becoming the first player to win the title twice. She turned professional in 2010, and won her first World Championship title in 2015, becoming the youngest ever and the first Egyptian female to do so. She then went on to win three more World Championships, in 2016, 2018, and 2019. She also won the British Open in 2016, 2018, and 2019, and the World Team Championship in 2012 and 2016. Nour El Sherbini is known for her flair, creativity, and shot-making. She is also admired for her courage, resilience, and charisma. She is one of the most popular and influential players in the sport, and a role model for many young girls in Egypt and around the world1
Michelle Martin
Michelle Martin is one of the most accomplished and consistent female squash players in history. She won three World Championship titles and six British Open titles, as well as three Commonwealth Games gold medals and 12 Australian National Championships. She also reached the world number one ranking in 1993, and held it for a total of 58 months. Michelle Martin started playing squash at the age of 10, and won the Australian Junior Championship in 1985. She turned professional in 1987, and won her first British Open title in 1993. She then went on to win five more British Open titles, in 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, and 1999. She also won the World Championship in 1993, 1994, and 1995. Michelle Martin was known for her fitness, determination, and accuracy. She was also renowned for her rivalry with Sarah Fitz-Gerald, which produced some of the most memorable and competitive matches in the sport. She retired from professional squash in 2000, after winning the gold medal at the Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games. She was inducted into the World Squash Hall of Fame in 2012, and the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 20141
Heather McKay
Heather McKay is one of the most legendary and unbeatable female squash players of all time. She won two World Championship titles and 16 British Open titles, as well as 14 Australian National Championships and 14 South Australian Championships. She also reached the world number one ranking in 1967, and held it until her retirement in 1981. Heather McKay started playing squash at the age of 15, and won the Australian National Championship at the age of 17. She turned professional in 1962, and won her first British Open title in 1962. She then went on to win 15 more British Open titles, from 1963 to 1977, without losing a single game. She also won the World Championship in 1976 and 1979, and the World Team Championship in 1979. Heather McKay was known for her skill, speed, and stamina. She was also admired for her versatility, as she also excelled in other sports, such as field hockey, racquetball, and tennis. She retired from professional squash in 1981, after an unbeaten run of 19 years. She was inducted into the World Squash Hall of Fame in 1993, and the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1985. She was also appointed as the Officer of the Order of Australia in 1979, and the Member of the Order of the British Empire in 19691
Rachael Grinham
Rachael Grinham is one of the most prolific and experienced female squash players in history. She has won one World Championship title and four British Open titles, as well as four Commonwealth Games medals and 31 PSA Tour titles. She is also the former world number one, and has been ranked in the top 10 for more than 10 years. Rachael Grinham started playing squash at the age of eight, and won the Australian Junior Championship in 1994. She turned professional in 1994, and won her first British Open title in 2003. She then went on to win three more British Open titles, in 2004, 2007, and 2013. She also won the World Championship in 2007,
The Evolution of Women’s Squash
Women’s squash has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception. While men’s squash had a longer history, women’s squash gradually gained recognition and prominence. Early on, women faced challenges in gaining acceptance and equal opportunities within the sport. However, their determination and skill led to significant milestones.
One of the key turning points was the establishment of the Women’s International Squash Players Association (WISPA) in 1992. WISPA played a crucial role in advocating for equal prize money, tournament opportunities, and recognition for women’s squash. This organization helped to elevate the status of women’s squash and create a platform for talented players to showcase their abilities.
Over the years, women’s squash has witnessed a surge in participation and competition. Players have achieved remarkable feats, breaking records and dominating tournaments. The sport has also gained wider recognition and exposure, attracting new fans and inspiring young girls to take up squash.
Despite the progress made, challenges remain. Issues such as gender pay gaps and limited sponsorship opportunities persist in some regions. However, the ongoing efforts of athletes, organisations, and fans are working towards creating a more equitable and inclusive environment for women’s squash.
The evolution of women’s squash is a testament to the resilience, determination, and talent of female players. As the sport continues to grow and evolve, it is exciting to anticipate the future achievements and contributions of women in squash.
Key Tournaments in Women’s Squash
Major tournaments have played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of women’s squash. These events serve as prestigious platforms for athletes to showcase their skills, compete against the best in the world, and establish their legacies.
The British Open is often considered the most prestigious tournament in squash, attracting top players from around the globe. Winning the British Open is a significant accomplishment, solidifying a player’s status as a champion. The tournament has a long history and has witnessed many iconic moments in women’s squash.
The World Championships are another major event that showcases the best players in the world. The World Championships are held every two years and offer a chance for players to compete for the ultimate title. Winning a World Championship is a testament to a player’s skill, consistency, and ability to perform at the highest level.
The Commonwealth Games are a multi-sport event that features squash as one of the competitions. The Commonwealth Games provide an opportunity for players from Commonwealth countries to compete against each other and showcase their talent on a global stage. Winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal is a prestigious achievement and a source of pride for both the player and their country.
These major tournaments have not only helped to elevate the profile of women’s squash but have also played a crucial role in inspiring young players and driving the sport forward. The competitive nature of these events encourages athletes to strive for excellence and push the boundaries of the game.
Rising Stars in Women’s Squash
The future of women’s squash looks incredibly bright, thanks to a crop of talented young players who are making waves on the professional circuit. These emerging stars possess exceptional skill, athleticism, and a determination to succeed.
Here are some examples of promising young players who are making waves in the sport:
- Nour El Tayeb (Egypt): A talented young player with a powerful game and a bright future.
- Salma Hany (Egypt): A rising star who has shown impressive skills and potential.
- Tinne Gilis (Belgium): A talented player from Belgium who has made significant strides in recent years.
- Tesnim Darko (Egypt): A young Egyptian player with a strong work ethic and a promising career ahead.
- Hania El Hammamy (Egypt): A talented player who has shown great potential and can become a top contender.
These are just a few examples of the talented young players who are shaping the future of women’s squash. As they continue to develop and mature, they have the potential to inspire the next generation of players and elevate the sport to new heights.