[1] Amr Shabana (Egy) bt [7] Anthony Ricketts (Aus)
7/11, 11/3, 8/4 rtd (26m)
Malcolm in New York A fine week in New York, but a disappointing final ... Malcolm
Willstrop reports
The
crowds at Grand Central had been splendid all week, but it was
standing room only for the final of the Bear Sterns Tournament of
Champions. The Champions of 2005 and 2006 were in opposition, so
this magnificent stage was set.
For those who watched Anthony Ricketts play Olli Tuominen in the
semi-finals it was clear that he had a problem with his racket arm,
which had affected him in the world championships in Egypt, however
he was still able to see off the Finn.
It
was a tentative Ricketts in the first game. Moving well, it was
immediately clear that he could not hit the ball hard. Despite
playing pacelessly he took an early lead, which he held throughout.
He reached his first game ball at 10/6 and won the game 11/7 with a
well-executed short forehand angle.
Whatever problems he was having, they increased in the second game.
Despite losing the first, Shabana looked quite relaxed, probably
because he was not being pressurised. A series of errors from
Ricketts, clearly caused by his injury, took the world number one
well clear in the second and won it easily 11/3.
The third game continued in the same vein, with Ricketts unable to
hit the ball and in clear discomfort as Shabana led 8/4 on his
opponent's errors. Everyone knows how tough and determined the
Australian is, so it was obvious his problems were severe when he
was forced to shake hands and retire.
It was, of course, not only a massive disappointment for Ricketts,
but also to the assembled crowds and I doubt that Shabana was that
happy either, much preferring I am sure to win a level contest.
The final of the women's challenge was won by Natalie Grainger who
beat Vanessa Atkinson 3/1. Atkinson began well, containing Grainger,
but gradually the American found more and more opportunities to
attack, which she did in style, especially on the forehand. It was
an attractive match and both girls quickly adapted to the 11 scoring
system, which will hopefully be adopted by the women's game sooner
rather than later.
Afterthoughts ...
Squash is played in many glamorous settings, none more so
than the ToC at Grand Central Station. John Nimick deserves much
credit for his part in ensuring that is so.
The crowds were excellent all
week, with full houses from the first day. Appreciative, too, of the
quality of sport they were watching.
Anthony
Ricketts performed wonders to beat Thierry Lincou and Olli
Tuominen with his arm problems, and he even managed to win a game in
the final when he didn't hit a single ball hard.
The Ramy Ashour / James Willstrop
match was a classic and the score didn't reflect the closeness of
it. Both played some sublime squash in the best of spirit. The
crowd, enraptured, gave them a deserved standing ovation..
Peter Nicol,
besides attending his lifestyle stand, gave previews of several
matches and commentated on the final. The New York crowds certainly
hadn't forgotten him and greeted him warmly.
Amr Shabana confirmed what a
great player he is and doesn't he know how to win. He looked in
danger against Hisham Ashour, survived, as champions do, and swept
everyone else aside.
New York, and
America at large, seems flooded out with English coaches.
They all look well contented and I look forward to the day when they
produce a champion from America.
Julian Illingworth, having been
given lucky loser status, did well to beat Dan Jenson with
enthusiastic support from the crowd. Just imagine when America has a
true contender for the world championship. Nothing will advance the
game there more.
Olli Tuominen
must have been thrilled with his performances, putting out Lee
Beachill and David Palmer. He looked impressive, especially in
attack.
The post-final party brought out
the revellers: Peter Nicol and Jessica; Simon Parke and Jayne; James
Willstrop and Vanessa Atkinson; Dan Jenson, of course; Damien Mudge,
Claudia. After the party at Grand Central the inevitable nightclub.
I was persuaded to go and yielded, mainly so I could keep a paternal
eye on them all!
[1] Amr Shabana (Egy) bt [7] Anthony Ricketts (Aus)
7/11, 11/3, 8/4 rtd (26m)
Shabana takes two
World number one Amr Shabana retained his Tournament of
Champions title in New York tonight, but not in the manner he, his
opponent or the supporters would have wished.
Anthony Ricketts, playing a slower pace than his norm, took the
first game but looked to be having problems early in the second,
the recurring elbow injury he aggravated in the semi-finals
clearly troubling him.
Shabana levelled, took a good lead in the third, and at 8/4
Ricketts shook his opponent's hand to bring an end to the
proceedings.
Earlier new US citizen Natalie Grainger collected the
women's challenge cup with an increasingly dominant display
against Vanessa Atkinson.
Beth Rasin reports
New York, March 2 - Inspired by the 10th anniversary of the Bear
Stearns Tournament of Champions presenting the world’s best squash
players in Grand Central Terminal, celebrated American artist
Frank Stella created sculptures for each of the tournament’s
champions which were presented at the conclusion of the
championship finals on the glass court.
Stella, a devoted squash fan who helped promote the professional
squash tour in New York City in the 1970s, said he wanted to pay
special tribute to the 10 year milestone of North America’s most
prestigious championship being played in Grand Central Terminal.
“This is really very special,” said Amr Shabana of Egypt, the
men’s champion upon receiving the sculptural trophy from the
artist. The #1 world-ranking player for the last year successfully
defended the title he won in 2006, defeating Australia’s Anthony
Ricketts, when Ricketts retired in the third game due to an elbow
injury.
Despite the fact that the defending champion knew that all wasn’t
right with Ricketts at the start of the match, he dropped the
first game 7-11. “I was nervous,” said Shabana. “I was hitting the
ball too short. I had to remember that it was his arm and not his
leg that was injured.”
As soon as the Egyptian started getting the ball deeper in the
court he gained control of the match, winning the second game
11-3. Down 4-8 in the third, Ricketts gave the signal that he
could not continue. “This is the first time that I have had to
forfeit a match,” said the Australian. “I have been struggling
with the elbow all week. I just couldn’t hit the ball hard.”
Earlier in the evening, Natalie Grainger defeated Vanessa Atkinson
9-11, 11-7, 11-5, 11-7 to win the Bear Stearns Women’s Challenge.
“This is really a special week for me, having just become a US
citizen and then winning here,” said Grainger, who had twice been
runner-up in the event.
The native South African got off to a sluggish start, dropping the
first game. But she picked up the pace, the length and her
shotmaking to take command of the match. Grainger, who perched
atop the WISPA rankings briefly in 2003, was enthusiastic about
her squash. ”I am really feeling strong,” she said,” and I am
adding some more variety and change of pace to my game. So I am
having a lot of fun out on the court.”
A permanent tournament trophy designed by Stella was presented at
the awards ceremony to tournament director John Nimick, who said,
“I can think of nothing more fitting to celebrate these
world-class athletes competing in one of the world’s great
landmarks than these extraordinary sculptures created by a great
artist and a great supporter of our sport.”
"It's
disappointing, everyone was looking forward to a great final, but
I've been struggling with my elbow all week, taking injections and
painkillers. It was tough, but tonight I just couldn't keep
going."
"What
can I say? Thanks to John Nimick and his team, it's a great
tournament, a great city and a great crowd. I've been playing it
for 11 years and I hope it can keep on getting better, I'll be
back next year."
[1] Amr Shabana (Egy) bt [4] Ramy Ashour (Egy)
11/6, 11/9, 11/6 (36m)
[7] Anthony Ricketts (Aus) bt [10] Olli Tuominen (Fin)
11/6, 8/11, 11/1, 11/6 (54m)
Last two champions prevail Malcolm Willstrop on the semis
Semi
finals night promised so much and in the event didn't quite fulfil
that promise. Ramy Ashour had played so brilliantly against James
Willstrop that many good judges thought he might beat Amr Shabana
for the first time.
Reminding me of their Hong Kong final, the first game was
shapeless, scrappy and lacked substance for two such great
players. Ashour didn't look right from the word go and although
Shabana wasn't called upon to produce his best he was clearly in
control. n
Nothing much changed, Shabana dominated in every respect and
Ashour seemed powerless to turn the tide. in less than forty
minutes it was done and dusted and the world no. 1 was in the
final for the second year in a row. in truth it was all a bit
disappointing since the match promised so much more.
Fellow countryman Wael El Hindi was as perplexed as I was since
he, too expected much more. Not that Shabana could do any more
than win 3 0, it was Ramy who didn't turn up, But maybe Shabana
deserves the credit, not only is the Egyptian a great player he
knows all about winning.
Olli Tuominen has performed miracles this week, with wins over Lee
Beachill and David Palmer, but Anthony Ricketts has been looking
very lively and he saw off Thierry Lincou in style 3/0, no easy
matter.
The athletic Australian began well, controlling the much improved
Finn and winning the first game with some ease. In the break
Ricketts' corner rubbed linament on his racket arm, which has
caused him problems before. It was obvious he was in difficulty as
he stopped hitting the ball, playing pacelessly. He lost the
second as easily as he won the first but to his credit he came out
determined and romped through the third 11 1.
Tuominen must have wondered what had hit him after his success in
the second game. Ricketts was not likely to let go now whatever
his problems were and he was in control in the fourth to make his
second ToC final. Horses for courses as the last two champions
make the final again.
I confirmed that Ricketts' arm is sore and much will depend on how
it is tomorrow if he is able to extend Shabana, who is hard enough
to play if you are 100 per cent fit. Nothing less will do.
It is to be hoped that Ricketts' arm holds up since the splendid
New York crowds and this special championship deserves a special
final which Ricketts and Shabana can certainly deliver, all being
well.
Ramy Ashour will no doubt be disappointed with his performance,
but Olli Tuominen will leave New York very happy with his
achievements.
In the women s challenge Vicky Botwright beat Shelley Kitchen 3/0
in the third place play off and tomorrow night's final will
feature Vanessa Atkinson and Natalie Grainger which should be an
attractive match.
It is good that they are playing American scoring to 11. They are
handling it no problem and it is paramount that this is soon their
accepted scoring. It makes the women's game so much more
attractive.
"I think he was nervous. I remember
when I was 19 and everyone expected me to win. And this is the
semi-finals of the Tournament of Champions – that’s a lot of
pressure.
"I am playing as well as I ever have."
"A slow pace isn't
my natural game, but I wanted to do something different to get my
mind back in the match.
"When I have my movement and focus together, I’m a tough man to
beat."
Semi-Finals at Grand Central Quick summary from Beth Rasin
The magical run of 19-year-old Ramy Ashour in his inaugural
Bear Stearns Tournament of Champions ended tonight as his
countryman Amr Shabana showed the rising squash star what
it means to be world #1 and defending champion. The eagerly
anticipated showdown between the champion and challenger had the
standing room only crowd in the spectacular Grand Central Terminal
setting buzzing with anticipation.
Shabana tames Ramy
When the younger Egyptian took early leads in each of the first
two games, the spectators were hoping for the same kind of
excitement they had experienced in Ashour’s quarterfinal win over
James Willstrop. In the first game Shabana took command at 5-5,
closing it out at 11-6. The second game went to 9-9 before Shabana
won it 11-9. The third was all Shabana, jumping out to a 3-1 lead
which he never relinquished as he took the game and match 11-6.
In the end, Shabana’s experience, quickness and gifted shotmaking
ruled the day and Ashour did not have the same electric energy on
court that he had displayed in previous matches. Unlike Ashour’s
previous opponents, Shabana did not give the youngster an inch of
room on the side wall or in the back of the court to make the
spectacular shots that Ashour had been able to produce with ease
in prior matches. Conversely, Shabana displayed his extraordinary
ability to produce breathtaking shots from every spot on the court
as well fabulous quickness and speed. .
“I think he was nervous,” Shabana said after the match. “I
remember when I was 19 and everyone expected me to win. And this
is the semifinals of the Tournament of Champions – that’s a lot of
pressure.” It is the kind of pressure that took several years for
Shabana to learn how to handle. Now, at 27 with the top ranking
under his belt for a year, Shabana says, “I am playing as well as
I ever have.”
Ricketts ends Olli's run
Shabana at the top of his game is a tall order for 2005 ToC
champion Anthony Ricketts who ended what was the best
tournament of Olli Tuominen’s career. The tenth seeded
Finn’s appearance in the semifinals was his first in 38 Super
Series event appearances since making his debut in the World Open
in September 1999.
The first game was all Ricketts as he won 11-6 and led the whole
way. Tuominen, as he did all week, came back in the second and
took it 11-8. Ricketts then took Tuominen by surprise by altering
has game a bit and slowing down the pace at the end of the second
and beginning of the third game. “It is not my natural game,” said
Ricketts of the slower pace, “but I wanted to do something
different to get my mind back in the match.” The strategy worked
as Ricketts dominated the third, winning 11-1.
With Tuominen losing momentum, the Aussie could smell victory and
closed out the match 11-6. The match had some classic moments of
Rickett’s intensity, but he also mixed in some humour. At one
point mid-match, Ricketts was sprawled on the court floor and
Tuominen hit the ball just barely over his opponent’s head.
Ricketts, who had picked up his racquet, asked for a let and the
crowd booed. Unperturbed, Ricketts said, to the crowd, “Relax, I
could have it off the back wall.”
Shabana and Ricketts played each other in the finals of the Windy
City Open just a few weeks ago, with Shabana the victor. Still,
Ricketts is confident going into the final. “When I have my
movement and focus together, I’m a tough man to beat.”
[7]
Anthony Ricketts (Aus) bt
[3] Thierry Lincou (Fra)
14/12, 11/4, 11/6 (59m)
[10] Olli Tuominen (Fin) bt [2] David Palmer (Aus) 9/11,
12/10, 11/8, 16/14 (77m)
Quarters part two Malcolm Willstrop in New York
It
was too much to hope that the second night of quarter finals at
the Bear Stearns ToC. would produce anything to match the
Ashour/Willstrop classic of the night before.
In the event neither was of the extreme quality that the two
youngsters produced but both were fascinating in their own way,
especially the Palmer/Tuominen match.
The first game between Anthony Ricketts and Thierry Lincou was as
crucial as it was demanding. Both players settled immediately and
it became clear that whoever won it would have a crucial
advantage. Ricketts, who has been bursting with energy all week,
won it on a tiebreak and from then on it was all uphill for the
Frenchman.
Ricketts played with pace, Lincou looked for precision but in
truth Lincou never looked likely to win after the thirty minute
first game. Ricketts won the second 11/4, the third 11/6 and moved
to the semi final of the championship he won in 2005.
Whoever he plays he will be a threat in his present mood. Lincou
battled and the match didn' run his way, but even if it had it
would not have altered the result.
Olli Tuominen had looked not only in good form but improved this
week, But not many would have fancied him to beat world champion
David Palmer.
It soon became clear however that there was a match on. Confidence
high after his win over Lee Beachill, Tuominen soon showed that he
was not overawed. The first was anybody's and Palmer edged it
11/9, but when Tuominen won the second on a tiebreak Palmer began
to show an unease that increased as the Finn maintained his
challenge.
Lets increased, as did Palmer's agitation when Tuominen, much more
attacking than when I last saw him, took a deserved 2/1 lead.
Decisions were contested, Palmer fell dramatically more than once,
Tuominen was pushed, but stayed cooler than his seasoned opponent.
There was an absolutely unbelievable rally which brought the New
York crowd to its feet as the world champion battled for survival.
Tuominen had match balls. Palmer saved one with a miraculous cross
court backhand volley. Still the Finn held firm as he failed to
convert match balls but finally he converted one to win what I'm
sure was his finest victory in such a prestigious event.
Beachill, Palmer and now he has Ricketts in his way. Let's make it
clear, there was no fluke about either of his wins and Ricketts,
who doesn't underestimate anyone, will need to be on his guard. It
may not have been the quality of the Ashour/Willstrop encounter,
but it was pulsating stuff, full of passion, contentiousness and
incident. Tuominen should enjoy his finest hour, he is thoroughly
professional and no one will begrudge him his success.
So to tomorrow's semi finals - Shabana v Ashour and Ricketts v
Tuominen. If Ashour plays as well as he did in the quarter final
the world no.1 will have to be at his best. Believing my eyes, I
will go for a Ricketts/Ashour final which should lend
encouragement to their opponents.
If the semis produce the excitement of the quarters then tomorrow
night you should be at grand central ... and not to catch a train.
Upsets abound in Grand Central Quick summary from Beth Rasin
It was hard to imagine that the remaining quarterfinal matches in
the Bear Stearns Tournament of Champions could match the
excitement of the Ashour-Willstrop confrontation of the previous
night, but it proved to be another evening of “on the edge of your
seat” squash. First up in the men’s draw were two time finalist
Thierry Lincou and 2005 champion Anthony Ricketts. On
paper, third seed Lincou in was the favourite. However,
seventh-seeded Ricketts came into New York feeling fit and eager
to do well in the championship that two years prior had been one
of the highlights of his career.
The Frenchman and the Aussie battled to a first game tiebreak.
Although Lincou managed to stave off two match points, he
ultimately lost the game at 4-2 in the tiebreak when the referees
made a “no let” decision on game ball. As Ricketts walked off with
the crowd booing the referees’ decision, it was clear that the
evening’s matches would include a third player - the sold-out
crowd who was not going to hesitate to voice both their
appreciation and disapproval.
The first game loss seemed to take the energy out of Lincou’s
game, and Ricketts played aggressive, focused squash to win the
next two games 11-4, 11-6. “That first game was so important,”
said Ricketts. “There were long rallies, lots of lets and lots of
discussion. Who ever won was going to get a big boost.” With the
win, Ricketts boosted himself right into the semifinals against
Finland’s Olli Tuominen, who scored one of the biggest
victories of his career when he defeated reigning World Champion
and #2 seed David Palmer of Australia in four games.
Tuominen, who had only defeated Palmer once in their prior 12
matches, had already done better than his tenth seed position when
he had eliminated #8 seed Lee Beachill in the second round. After
that victory, he talked about the confidence he had gained by
making to the finals of the Swedish Open just 10 days prior to the
ToC. Having lost to Palmer, he was eager for a re-match. “I feel
like I am playing really well right now, and it is still my goal
to make the top ten,” said Tuominen who is never taken lightly by
his opponents. “But I don’ t have that much time left to do it.”
Palmer won the first game 11-9, but Tuominen wrong footed Palmer
twice in the second game tiebreak to even the score. Tuominen
jumped out to a 7-1 lead in the third, which proved insurmountable
for Palmer. By the third game, the match had taken on a new
dimension – a combative physicality where the players were pushing
and shoving each other in excess of what was really necessary to
demonstrate to the referee that they deserved a let. The
physicality put Palmer on edge, while Tuominen got a conduct
warning but still played creative and tenacious squash.
After Tuominen won the third game 11-8, Palmer was clearly on the
ropes. He fell behind 2-5 in the fourth, but he was not ready to
go down for the count. The reigning World Champion pushed ahead to
a 9-7 lead, but once again, his opponent played calm and played
strategic squash. Tuominen hit a brilliant backhand volley
followed by a tight rail that Palmer couldn’t get enough of his
racquet on to return, resulting in a 9-9 tie. A Palmer volley
winner gave him game ball at 10-9 but a no let call – disapproved
by the crowd - evened the score at 10 all.
By this time, you could cut the tension in the Terminal with a
knife. A Palmer tin swung the lead back to Tuominen. Several
spectacular saves by Palmer of shots that had him diving and
leaping to stay in the match brought the crowd roaring to its feet
when Palmer appeared to have hit the ball past his opponent. The
“yes let call” once again earned the ire of the stands and Palmer
hit a gutsy resounding winner on the next point – pumping his fist
at the referees after the ball rolled out of the nick. It wasn’t
until the fourth match ball that Tuominen put the match to rest.
Immediately after the match, the winner said, “I am surprisingly
calm, but I felt calm throughout the match.” As for his semifinal
match up with Ricketts. Tuominen said, “I am looking forward to
it. After all, I have come this far – I have nothing to lose. ”
[1] Amr Shabana (Egy) bt [6] John White (Sco)
11/4, 11/7, 11/4 (33m) [4] Ramy Ashour (Egy)bt [5] James Willstrop (Eng)
11/9, 5/11, 11/6, 11/6 (57m)
A Match and a Half ... Malcolm watches a fantastic
first quarter-final session
A
packed house at Grand Central Station was in a state of high
expectation as the first two quarter finals approached.
Four of the most entertaining players in the world were on show
and Amr Shabana and John White were first on. White
has been in high form lately and with Shabana looking edgy against
Hisham Ashour he must have fancied his chances. However when he
didn't make his customary fast start the portents were not
favourable. After last night's problems, which he told me were
physical, Shabana showed no signs of frailty, winning the first
very easily. White did improve but never enough to threaten and
the world no.1 eased his way through to another semi-final.
So high expectations were not fulfilled, but whatever the first
match lacked the second made up for it.
The squash world wanted to see new sensation Ramy Ashour
against the established James Willstrop and anyone who saw
it will not have been disappointed. This was a match of staggering
skill and mind blowing movement, without doubt one of the best
matches I have ever seen. All it needed was a fifth to make it a
classic.
Willstrop began well, as he did in every game, but Ashour was soon
in contention and as they traded shots of outstanding quality
there was never much in it. Ashour took it 11/9 as the
appreciative New York crowd roared their approval, often getting
to their feet to applaud incredible rallies. At no time did the
standard - which was top world class - falter and Willstrop,
capitalising on another good start, won the second game
convincingly to level matters.
Some of the shot making created by these two wonderful racket
players was beyond belief, the crowd gasping in astonishment as
seeming winners were retrieved with interest. Ashour must already
be one of the best movers the sport has ever seen and Willstrop
managed to match him for long periods. The third was tight but
Ashour got away in the late stages to take a 2/1 lead.
Still the pace, the shot making and the retrieving were
unrelenting. Willstrop again led early in the fourth but Ashour,
fortified by the lead, caught up and got away in the closing
stages to win the match and a place in the semi finals against Amr
Shabana. The crowd rose to give the players a deserved standing
ovation and left the arena buzzing with excitement.
It was a truly magnificent occasion and I was glad I saw it. The
match was played in fine spirit, the players showing mutual
respect. If they are the future of squash then there is little to
worry about - spectators will watch matches of this quality any
time.
I am happy to say that negotiations are already in hand for the
two of them to play a five match series run by Eventis in England
in July, and this was before tonight's match. It looks an even
better prospect now.
Ashour v Shabana on Thursday..... I cant wait.....
The Future of Squash Arrives at Grand Central Terminal Quick summary from Beth Rasin
Bells were sounding and lights began flashing from a false fire
alarm in Grand Central Terminal tonight just as 19-year-old Ramy
Ashour and 23-year-old James Willstrop were about to step onto the
glass court in Grand Central Terminal.
It was fitting, really, that the alarms went off for these two
because just about an hour later an enthralled capacity crowd
realized that they had had just been treated to the first glimpse
of the future of squash, and it was brilliant.
The much-anticipated match up between the current and former World
Junior Champions was squash at its best. “Two players who are
magicians on the court,” is how Tournament Director John Nimick
described the match. Both Willstrop and Ashour have beautiful
touch and they utilized very possible shot combination, mixing
drops with lobs and cross courts and two wall boasts as they moved
each other from corner to corner.
Willstrop jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the first game, but the
young Egyptian evened the score at 4 all. After securing a 9-6
lead, Ashour won the first game 11-9.
In the second game, Willstrop again took an early lead at 4-1, and
this time he never relinquished it, winning the second game 11-5.
In each of the next two games, the players continued to stretch
the court – and themselves. In the end, it was the younger Ashour,
with his unflappable court sense and competitive fire, who carried
the day with both his brilliant shotmaking and extraordinary court
movement.
“He is a fantastic player, said Willstrop, who used several double
pump shots to try to throw off his opponent during the match. “As
good as his shotmaking is, it is his movement that is brilliant. I
think I played pretty well tonight but at the critical moments
Ramy played better.”
“I am wordless,” said the exuberant Ashour after the match. “I
haven’t been this excited in awhile. James is such a good player
and to play as well as I did against him is really great.”
Ashour will face his countryman, the ToC defending champion Amr
Shabana in Thursday’s semifinals. The world #1 never let
Scotland’s John White into the match, winning in three games. A
fter observing the Willstrop-Ashour contest, Shabana observed,
“They weren’t out on the court as long as I would have liked.”
The evening started with the semifinal round of the Bear Stearns
Women’s Challenge. World #6 Natalie Grainger, who became a US
citizen earlier this month, defeated New Zealand’s Shelley Kitchen
3-1.
Quarters coming up
in Grand Central Malcolm looks at the coming quarters ...
The
quarter final line up is as the seeding indicated save for Olli
Tuominen replacing Lee Beachill.
It is Shabana v White, Ashour v Willstrop, Lincou v Ricketts and
Palmer v Tuominen.
Three former and the current world no.1, the current and two
former world champions, the last two winners of the ToC plus two
the of the three best young players in the world. Palmer will
probably feel the most secure, but Tuominen looks in fine form and
improved. He will be no pushover.
Lincou and Ricketts is a
heavyweight clash of massive proportions.
These two matches are on Wednesday night. Tonight are two matches
which would capture any sporting imagination.
Shabana looked uncertain last night at times and the in-form White
is not one of his favourite opponents. White will have noted the
world no. one's insecurity and close to home has more than a
chance of causing an upset.
Ashour has set the squash world alight and tonight he faces
Willstrop for the first time. The Englishman is over his problems
of the first half and he looks ready for the challenge.
Whatever the outcomes both matches should be spectacular in this
most spectacular of settings.
[10] Olli Tuominen (Fin) bt [8] Lee Beachill (Eng)
5/11, 11/7, 11/9, 11/9 (56m)
[2] David Palmer (Aus) bt Julian Illingworth (Usa)
11/5, 11/3, 11/6 (33m)
Mon 26th Feb, Round Two: Round
Two in
Grand Central Julian Illingworth, the American no. 1, has had a charmed
life in New York. Lucky loser from qualification, 3/2 winner over
Dan Jenson in the first round from 2/0 down - something he had
never achieved before in a PSA event,
He would need more than luck against world champion, David
Palmer. Urged on by a supportive New York crowd, Illingworth
acquitted himself well against an opponent, who takes no prisoners
and who kept himself well up to the mark. Both men are exactly the
same height and weight by coincidence and there was nothing
lightweight about the contest. Illingworth fought well, had his
moments and can be happy with his venture into the big time. His
only black mark was the churlish looking hurling of his racket
across the court at the end of two of the games - unchecked as far
as I know by the officials. Not necessary and no example to the
youngsters in the crowd.
Shabana v Hisham Ashour turned out to be the match of the
championship so far and indeed it was one of the most exciting
matches I have ever seen. Shabana began in style with his
trademark forehand doing its usual amount of damage with its
combination of power and touch and when the world no. 1 went 2/0
up, it seemed business as usual. But drama was to follow.
Ashour, determined, it seems, not to be totally upstaged by his
younger brother, produced some amazing squash and as doubts crept
in, Shabana looked insecure and vulnerable, tinning ball after
ball. Easy 2/0 became complicated 2/1 and to the delight of the
crowd 2/1 became 2-all as Ashour settled a tense fourth.
An upset of titanic proportions seemed more than possible, as
Ashour continued to unsettle the reigning champion in the decider.
Strangely, though, after so much uninhibitedness, Ashour faltered
in the middle of the game. He hit a couple of unforced errors,
went a little negative for him and the chance maybe of a lifetime
was gone.
Some match, though. The crowd rose and acclaimed it, Shabana
breathed a sigh of relief and Ashour cursed the gods for having
shown him paradise and denying him entry.
Anthony Ricketts, previous holder of the championship and
in fine form in 2007, looks to be champing at the bit and Borja
Golan, the Spanish champion, provided worthwhile opposition
for him in the second round. Golan has been around a long time. He
was a high class junior and he is one those younger players who
could break into the top 16. Both players are athletic and
physical and the match provided a contrast to what had gone
before. It was always of interest though, and Golan was never far
off the pace, which, with Ricketts, is always a strong one.
It seemed as if Golan might win a game, but he didn't quite manage
it. He showed enough, however, to suggest that one more surge
would move him into the more elite areas of the game. Ricketts
will be happy enough, as he faces Thierry Lincou, no lightweight
contest this. Two heavyweights, two winners ... wednesday awaits.
Liam Kenny had fought out a late night marathon with
Joey Barrington on Sunday night. Two up he was taken the full
distance and delighted to come through it. His reward was a second
round against Lincou, and even fresh that would be a problem. Less
than twenty four hours after the Barrington match the problem was
never going to be solved.
He did, as Damon Runyon said, the best he could, as he always
does, but the consistent Frenchman won with some ease 3/0 to
advance to Wednesday's quarter final.
Two over thirties who are
maintaining form remarkably well kick started the eight second
round matches, John White and Alex Gough. Gough hasn't been
sleeping too well in New York and he would need to be wide awake
to cope with the familiar early White onslaught. The American
resident has been in fine form of late moving especially well.
White went 4/1 up in the first and was always ahead, winning it at
the third attempt 11/7. White continued to control matters in the
second - unusually for them neither offering much verbally. The
match remained very watchable with White holding an edge over the
Welshman, who managed to get to nine all in the second before
White clinched it 11/9 looking very relaxed. Although Gough led
8/5 in the third White pulled him back at 10/9 and served for the
match. Gough took it to a tiebreak but White won 12/10 on his
second match ball to become the first quarter finalist at the same
time confirming his current well being.
Wael El Hindi has been around for a long time, but all the
recent indications have been that he has improved. It certainly
looked like it as he played with confidence in the first game
against squash sensation fellow-Egyptian Ramy Ashour. He
won it too, and for a while threatened to take a 2/0 lead. Both
players attacked at every given opportunity, but both made
surprising unforced errors. Ashour won the second and from then on
took increasing control, finally winning running away. His
confrontation with James Willstrop should be worth the entrance
money.
As the squash world knows Shahier Razik is a difficult
player to beat on outside courts and can give the best a run for
their money. On glass it is a different story and James
Willstrop, no doubt fine tuning for the quarter final, was in
complete control from the beginning. He moved well and sought
every chance to attack with a wide variety of shots. Razik
defended as best he could but he wasn't going to win a game, let
alone the match. Willstrop will be happy with the way he played
though, and his first ever meeting with Ashour tomorrow night will
be eagerly awaited by the splendid New York crowds.
Olli Tuominen had looked sharp and positive in his first
round win over Saurav Ghosal and he continued in the same vein, as
he caused the first upset of the championships, putting out Lee
Beachill in a tight 3/1. All seemed according to plan when
Beachill won the first, but Tuominen, attacking and showing a wide
range of shot, took the second 11/7. Beachill looked a little
lethargic, explainable perhaps by a recent neck injury, but
Tuominen continued to attack and although Beachill battled, the
Finn won the third and fourth, both 11/9, for a well deserved
victory. He was justifiably elated whilst Beachill looked equally
dejected.
Shabana sneaks through,
Olli ousts Lee ... Quick summary from Beth
Rasin
The buzz continues to build around teen squash phenom Ramy
Ashour who drew a big crowd to the glass court in Grand
Central, even though it was the middle of a wintry workday. Those
who came were not disappointed. Playing his countryman Wael El
Hindi, the 19-year-old Egyptian found himself on the losing end of
the first game. Demonstrating a competitive maturity beyond his
years, the two-time world junior champion found his focus and was
able put the balls in the right place on the court for the next
three games.
"He
had so much power, and the balls I was hitting weren’t going to
the right place. So I had to get my concentration."
Ramy’s next opponent is the player
who preceded him as World Junior Champion, 23–year-old James
Willstrop of England, who was the talk of the tournament three
years when he reached the quarterfinals in his inaugural ToC
appearance. “This is my first meeting with Ramy,” said Willstrop,
who defeated Canada’s Shahier Razik in three games, “and I am
exited to play him. He’s physically so strong and his all around
game is quite complete. “
Defending champion Amr Shabana had his hands full with
Ramy’s older brother Hisham in the evening’s second match. Up 2-0,
Shabana was unable to convert two match balls in the third.
Winning the close third game fired up the older Ashour, who had
the world #1 diving for balls in the fourth. It was neck and neck
until seven all in the fifth, when the two-time World Champion
exerted his authority and closed out the match 11-7 in the fifth.
"My
legs weren’t there in the third. I wouldn’t have won this match a
few years ago.
"But being #1, you have to continue to fight. You have a name and
a reputation to defend."
The top seed now meets John
White, who held off the challenge of Alex Gough in the
match-up of the two oldest players in the draw.
The only upset in the day’s play came when Olli Tuominen of
Finland defeated eighth seed Lee Beachill in four games. He will
next take on second seed David Palmer who ended the
history-making run of America’s Julian Illingworth, the only US
player to make it to the second round of a PSA Super Series event.
"I
wanted to dominate from the start and keep the crowd quiet.
"It’s never easy when you are expected to win."
The remaining quarterfinal match
up will see 2005 ToC champion Anthony Ricketts face off
against two-time finalist Thierry Lincou. After closing out
a 20-minute first game against Spain’s Borja Golan, Ricketts won
the next two with a bit more ease. Lincou defeated Ireland’s Liam
Kenny in three.
25-Feb-07:
Grand Central
Round One,Day Two Malcolm Willstrop in New York
Evening Session Wildcard Chris Gordon,
playing in his hometown, was looking to become the second American
to make the last 16 after Julian Illingworth's success earlier
to-day, his opponent being the Spanish no1 and world no20 Borja
Golan. Both players set off hitting the ball powerfully and a
closely fought 1st game went in Gordon's favour after a tiebreak.
The second was well contested too, but Golan levelled up and when he
went 2/1 up, there were signs that Gordon was feeling the pinch. The
Spaniard went clear in the fourth and although Gordon battled hard
it was the game and match 11/7. He is likely to meet Anthony
Ricketts tomorrow.
Matches between players from the same country are not what they
would choose for all sorts of valid reasons. Thierry Lincou
can start slowly, but was quickly out of the blocks and although
Renan Lavigne was looking by no means overawed, it was Lincou
who took the first 11/8. However at 6-all in the second Lincou
seemed to lack conviction and Lavigne went quickly in to a 10/6
lead. On the third game ball he hit an exceptional overhead forehand
volley into the cross court nick, much to his delight. Whatever
uncertainty Lincou felt in the second quickly disappeared as he
raced to 5/1 in the third. 5/1 became 10/3, despite Lavigne's best
efforts, and at 11/3 Lincou was 2/1 up and back in control. A
violent rally at 7/4 which Lavigne lost virtually destroyed any
hopes he had and the world no4 settled matters at 11/7 on the third
match ball.
Anthony Ricketts, fresh from his victory in Virginia has been
sojourning in New York, and looked full of energy at the start of
his match with Stefan Castelyn, who coaches locally and had
plenty of support. There was something of a caged lion about the
about the Australian though, and he can explode in such
circumstances. Castelyn led 9/6 but Ricketts recovered and won it on
his first game ball 11/9. The first part of the second game was very
easy for Ricketts and after some resistance in the middle of the
game, the Australian went clear 9/4, eventually taking it 11/6. It
was hard to imagine Castelyn, as fit as he looked, sustaining the
necessary pace, and Ricketts took and early lead in the third,
before clearing away to win the game 11/5 and the match.
Afternoon Session
Julian Illingworth may have been fortunate to make the first
round but when he was two nil down his chances of capitalizing
seemed remote. Dan Jenson seemed to be well in control, but the
young American hit the ball harder and began to impose himself more.
He took the third and with Jenson looking a little tired in the
fourth, Illingworth levelled out after a tense game.
The crowd were willing their new found hero home, but after two
match balls to Illingworth in the decider, the match went to a tie
break.
To the New York's crowd delight it was Illingworth who won it, and
he will have a severer task in the second round when he takes on
David Palmer. He will enjoy the experience, though and will have
the crowd behind him, that s for sure.
“I
am really grateful that I took advantage of this lucky break. I knew
that I was fitter than Dan, and if I could keep him out there long
enough, I could win the match.”
World Champion Palmer made his first
appearance against Englishman Mark Heather - long time resident in
America.
Heather is an easy player to watch, but Palmer, without ever being
out of third gear, eased his way to a 3/0 victory in half an hour.
It was good enough to give Palmer a decent workout and Heather can
feel happy enough with his contribution.
Lee Beachill, happily recovered from the neck injury which
prevented him playing the semi final of the British Closed, stepped
on court with young Colombian Miguel Angel Rodriguez, who proved to
be very worthwhile opposition. The South American showed plenty of
promise, as he worked hard to cope with Beachill's trademark
precision.
Rodriguez will surely benefit from his experience in New York and
Beachill showed no signs of the injury which is good news for him.
Olli Tuominen began his match as well as Saurav Ghosal began
it badly. The young Indian no one presented a lively looking
Tuominen with plenty of opportunities and the Finn accepted them
gratefully to win the first game easily.
Although Ghosal began to put some shape to his game in the second he
made little impression to the score and it was only in the third
that he at last engaged his opponent.
But it was all too late and Tuominen closed out the match 11/8 to
show that there is space between the hardened top twenty pros and
aspiring youngsters, unless of course your name is Ramy Ashour.
Tuominen will now face Lee Beachill in the second round.
The evening
crowd was hopeful for another American victory when 20-year-old
Chris Gordon, the tournament’s wild card entry, took the first game
from Spain’s Borja Golan. But the 11th seed quickly rebounded to win
the next three games. He will face Anthony Ricketts, the 2005
champion, who had no trouble with Belgium’s Stefan Casteleyn. Third
seed Thierry Lincou, who defeated his best friend and French
compatriot Renan Lavigne, 3-1, will take on Ireland’s Liam Kenny,
who outlasted Joey Barrington in an 88-minute, five game victory.
A tantalising last eight ...
The last eight, if it materialises - it often doesn't nowadays -
reads:
Shabana v White
Willstrop v Ashour
Ricketts v Lincou
Beachill v Palmer
Those prospective matches should satisfy anyone!
An in form White taking on champion Shabana, the first meeting of
Ashour and Willstrop, another in form player Ricketts against Lincou
and Palmer and Beachill whose matches are very close.
Stacey Ross (Eng) bt Julian Illingworth (Usa)
11/7, 11/8, 8/11, 8/11, 11/9 (93m)
Omar Abdel Aziz (Egy) bt Bradley Hindle (Aus) 12/10, 11/1,
11/4 (45m)
Mark Heather (Eng) bt Steve Finitsis (Aus)
12/10, 14/12, 7/11, 10/12, 11/8 (66m)
Stefan Casteleyn (Bel) bt Simon Rosner (Ger) 5/11,
11/7, 5/11, 11/8, 11/6 (73m)
Miguel Rodriguez (Col) bt Laurent Elriani (Fra) 4/11,
11/8, 2/11, 11/9, 11/9 (81m)
Dan Jenson (Aus) bt Jan Koukal (Cze)
11/6, 11/9, 11/4 (34m)
Sourav Ghosal (Ind) bt Chris Simpson (Eng)
11/4, 11/8, 11/8 (45m)
Yasser El Halaby (Egy) bt Julien Balbo (Fra)
11/6, 11/7, 11/8 (32m)
First Round : Stacey Ross bt Ben Oliner 11/8 11/8 11/4 (27m)
Julian Illingworth bt Chris Walker
4/11, 12/10,11/8, 6/11, 12/10 (76m)
Omar Abdel Aziz bt Tony James 12/10, 11/8, 12/10
(27m)
Bradley Hindle bt Wade Johnstone 11/7, 11/9, 11/8
(36m)
Mark Heather bt John Fulham 11/6, 12/10, 11/6,
(33m)
Steve Finitsis bt Scott Arnold
7/11, 11/5, 11/2, 6/11, 13/11 (59m)
Stefan Castelyn bt Aaron Francomb 7/11, 11/8, 11/5,
11/4 (73m)
Simon Rosner bt Ahmed Maged Hamza 11/4, 10/12, 11/2,
8/11, 11/0 (56m)
Laurent Elriani bt Karim Yehia
11/3, 12/14, 15/13, 11/4 (66m)
Miguel Angel Rodriguez bt Fabien Verseille 11/7, 11/6, 5/11,
11/7 (40m)
Jan Koukal bt Bernardo Samper 2/11, 13/11, 11/7,
11/6 (49m)
Dan Jenson bt Pat Bedore 11/7, 11/4, 13/11
(31m)
Chris Simpson bt Luke Margan 7/11, 14/12, 11/9,
11/6 (63m)
Saurav Ghosal bt David Barnett 11/8, 11/8, 11/8
(32m)
Julien Balbo bt Mohd AA Reda 11/4, 11/8, 11/9
(47m)
Yasser El Halaby bt Shawn Delierre 7/11, 11/5, 11/8,
4/11, 11/5 (61m)
Tournament of Champions 2007
22Feb to 02 Mar, New York
24-Feb-07:
On to Grand Central Malcolm Willstrop in New York
Wael el Hindi, whose recent form has been better than ever, and
the charismatic Eric Galvez opened proceedings at the Bear
Stearns Tournament of Champions. It was a match in which Galvez
never quite threatened, but almost won the third game, which had it
happened might have made things interesting.
El
Hindi took the first two games comfortably, having led 4/0 in the
first and 6/0 in the second. Although Galvez recovered, the early
leads had done the damage.
It was the Mexican though, who led in the third and it was nip and
tuck to nine all, when what seemed to me a harsh decision gave the
Egyptian match-ball, which he took readily.
There
was a big crowd to witness the second match between Ramy Ashour,
whom everyone wants to see, and former world class junior Yasser
El Halaby who has completed his university studies in America.
Ashour played within himself and took the first 11/6. Although El
Halaby led 5/0 in the second, Ashour as would be expected raised his
considerable game and won it 11/8. The third was over in a trice
11/3 as El Halaby's errors and Ashour's winners took the talented
Egyptian well clear.
El Halaby plays to a very good level, but Ashour is in another
realm and was hardly out of a canter. El Hindi will give him more to
do in the next round.
Bradley
Ball is well respected by his fellow professionals as a fine
striker of the ball and he certainly did himself justice in his
match with James Willstrop. The fast, even pace of the first
game suited Ball well and he took it 11/6, but Willstrop quickly
retaliated, winning the second 11/3 and it seemed as if that might
be the end of it.
Ball, though stuck to the task, hit severely on the forehand and
Willstrop had to work hard to win 11/8 11/7. With a day's rest he
may well benefit from having a demanding match.
The
all Egyptian clash between Hisham Ashour and Omar Aziz,
who, good player that he is, looks likely to be referred to as
Ramy's brother for the rest of his life, was the first match on
saturday night.
Ashour took the first game well enough, but Aziz, a qualifier, led
in the second, only to be pulled back and lose it in a tie break.
Again Aziz led clear in the third, again Ashour came back at him,
only this time Aziz held on to win it.
Nevertheless Ashour had always appeared to have an edge and he raced
in to a 6/1 lead. Both players do plenty with the ball, Ashour also
entertains as well, so the almost sell out crowd at Grand Central
were thoroughly enjoying themselves. 6/1 became 9/4, 10/5 and the
match was Ashour's and a probable second round meeting with Shabana.
There
was scarcely a seat in the house as world no1 and holder Amr
Shabana took to the court in the famous setting of Grand Central
Station. Frenchman Jean-Michel Arcucci, qualifier, was
Shabana's opponent, he never gives less than his best and found
himself with a 6/5 lead, though every so often he was doubled up, as
if in pain. 6/5 up soon became 10/7 and with his first game ball
took a 1-0 lead. He raced away with the second in what seemed no
time and won it 11/5, as if to emphasise the gap between the worlds
best player and the rest.
The third was just as quick as Shabana finished off the Frenchman in
no time. There will be severer tasks ahead.
A tantalising last eight ...
The last eight, if it materialises - it often doesn't nowadays -
reads:
Shabana v White
Willstrop v Ashour
Ricketts v Lincou
Beachill v Palmer
Those prospective matches should satisfy anyone!
An in form White taking on champion Shabana, the first meeting of
Ashour and Willstrop, another in form player Ricketts against Lincou
and Palmer and Beachill whose matches are very close.
24-Feb-07: On
to Grand Central Malcolm Willstrop in New York
While
the final round of qualifying was in full swing at the NYAC, the Pro-Am
challenge moved in to action at Grand Central Station with eleven of the
world's top players taking on representatives of 13 companies, Peter
Nicol & James Willstrop meeting two challenges. All this activity ended
in an exhibition match between Willstrop & Ricketts.
Points won by the amateur player were translated into dollars for City
Squash and raised over 5,000 dollars thanks to the generosity of Bear
Stearns the ToC principal sponsor.
Wael El Hindi and Eric Galvez kick off Saturday's action and second on
court will be sensational Ramy Ashour. World no1 and ToC holder Amr
Shabana plays in the evening session, as does American resident John
White, who has been in fine form in 2007.
The eight qualifiers from NYAC are: Stacey Ross, Omar Aziz, Yasser El
Halaby, Stefan Castelyn, Saurav Ghosal, Miguel Rodriguez, Mark Heather
and lucky loser Julian Illingworth representatives of six countries.
Illingworth gets the lucky loser spot in place of Laurens Anjema and
plays Dan Jenson, another qualifier, who played well to dispose of Jan
Koukal 3/0.
Of the others, Sourav Ghosal, the Indian champion, faces Olli Tuominen
and the re-emerging El Halaby has the daunting prospect of Ramy Ashour.
Tournament of Champions 2007
22Feb to 02 Mar, New York
22-Feb-07:
Qualifying Day One Malcolm Willstrop in New York
Qualifying got under way at the New York Athletic Club when a
gathering of aspiring younger players had in their midst three
former top ten players:
Chris Walker, Stefan Castelyn and Dan Jenson,
who are perhaps inspired by the exploits of 36 year old Alex Gough
and 33 year old John White.
Castelyn, coaching in America, looked lean and well and overcame
Aaron Frankcomb, who is yet to fulfil the promise of his early
teenage years, 3/1. He plays mechanically, but was more let down by
unreasonable and unseemly tirades against the referee, which at one
time warranted disqualification.
Jenson is a quite beautiful technical player, much admired by his
fellow professionals. His technique is simplicity itself and he had
the length of the court mastered as he brushed aside young Canadian
Patrick Bedore 3/0.
Walker, the former England Captain, is now the US Men’s Coach and
Julian Illingworth is a member of the squad. The coach has
taught the student well - after 76 minutes of play the young
American prevailed 12-10 in the fifth.
Indian champion Saurav Ghosal was untroubled to dispose of
David Barnett 3/0. Gousal's pace is outstanding and when he
completes his studies at Leeds
University in 2008, he will be a force on the the world tour.
His opponent in the final round of the qualification will be young
Englishman Chris Simpson, who for a long time looked likely
to lose to the clean striking Australian, Luke Margan. Simpson,
however, grafted, gradually imposing his squash and in the end wore
down Margan 3/1, who may be left wondering how he lost.
Stacey Ross, Mark Heather, Simon Rosner and
Jan Koukal, who will face Jenson, are all through to tomorrow's
final round, when there is much to play
for.
Amr Shabana, James Willstrop, Lee Beachill and Thierry Lincou are
all arrived, preparing for first round action which begins on
Saturday.
30-Jan-07:
World’s Top Squash Players on Board for Bear Stearns Tournament of
Champions
New York, NY – The world’s top squash players have all got their
tickets to ride into Grand Central Terminal from February 24 - March
2 to compete in one of the most prestigious events on the
international tour, the Bear Stearns Tournament of Champions. World
#1 Amr Shabana of Egypt will return to New York to defend his title
and will be joined in the 32-player draw by virtually all the
world’s top players.
"On its tenth anniversary in Grand Central Terminal, the Bear
Stearns Tournament of Champions continues to be one of the most
significant events on the professional world squash tour,” said
Tournament Director John Nimick. “Since the tournament's launch in
this iconic venue in 1995 more than 1,000,000 visitors have watched
squash at its best. I am delighted that, once again in 2007,
virtually all the world's top squash players are returning to carry
on ToC's rich and prestigious legacy."
Among the top players joining the defending champion in pursuit of
the prized Tournament of Champions title will be reigning World Open
champion, #2-ranked David Palmer of Australia, rising star Gregory
Gaultier of France who recently ascended to #3 in the rankings; and
former world #1 Thierry Lincou, a two-time ToC finalist. Rounding
out the top five is teen sensation and 2004 World Junior Champion
Ramy Ashour of Egypt, the 19-year-old who has rocketed from #38 to
#5 in the world rankings in the past twelve months. Christopher
Gordon of the US is in the main draw for the first time as a
wildcard entry.
The Women’s Invitational will feature the top-ranked women’s
players, including two-time champion Vanessa Atkinson of the
Netherlands, and world #5 Natalie Grainger, who just last month
became a US citizen.
Grand Central’s only annual sports championship, the 2007 Bear
Stearns Tournament of Champions, will take place on the portable,
see-through squash court February 24 -March 2, 2007. The Vanderbilt
Hall set-up contains a state-of-the-art portable glass squash court,
gallery seating for 500, and free viewing for the public. A PSA
Super Series event for the men, the Bear Stearns Tournament of
Champions features a 32-player main draw and a 32-player
qualification tournament. The women’s invitational will feature four
of the world’s top women players. Tickets range in price from $25 to
$130.
Tournament week will also feature the country’s top amateur players
competing in the US Skill Level Championships from February 22 -25.
Other activities during tournament week include the inaugural
SuperSTARS Lunch Benefit on Wednesday, February 28 in support of
PowerPlay NYC, Inc., a nonprofit providing fundamental sports and
life skills training for girls in underserved communities in New
York City. The Tournament also highlights the accomplishments of
StreetSquash and CitySquash, two New York-based, youth-oriented
after-school programs which blend squash, academics, community
service and mentoring.
The
crowds at Grand Central had been splendid all week, but it was
standing room only for the final of the Bear Sterns Tournament of
Champions. The Champions of 2005 and 2006 were in opposition, so
this magnificent stage was set.
"It's
disappointing, everyone was looking forward to a great final, but
I've been struggling with my elbow all week, taking injections and
painkillers. It was tough, but tonight I just couldn't keep
going."
"What
can I say? Thanks to John Nimick and his team, it's a great
tournament, a great city and a great crowd. I've been playing it
for 11 years and I hope it can keep on getting better, I'll be
back next year."
"He
had so much power, and the balls I was hitting weren’t going to
the right place. So I had to get my concentration."
"My
legs weren’t there in the third. I wouldn’t have won this match a
few years ago. 
"I
wanted to dominate from the start and keep the crowd quiet. 
“I
am really grateful that I took advantage of this lucky break. I knew
that I was fitter than Dan, and if I could keep him out there long
enough, I could win the match.” 
El
Hindi took the first two games comfortably, having led 4/0 in the
first and 6/0 in the second. Although Galvez recovered, the early
leads had done the damage. 
There
was a big crowd to witness the second match between Ramy Ashour,
whom everyone wants to see, and former world class junior Yasser
El Halaby who has completed his university studies in America.
Bradley
Ball is well respected by his fellow professionals as a fine
striker of the ball and he certainly did himself justice in his
match with James Willstrop. The fast, even pace of the first
game suited Ball well and he took it 11/6, but Willstrop quickly
retaliated, winning the second 11/3 and it seemed as if that might
be the end of it. 
The
all Egyptian clash between Hisham Ashour and Omar Aziz,
who, good player that he is, looks likely to be referred to as
Ramy's brother for the rest of his life, was the first match on
saturday night.
There
was scarcely a seat in the house as world no1 and holder Amr
Shabana took to the court in the famous setting of Grand Central
Station. Frenchman Jean-Michel Arcucci, qualifier, was
Shabana's opponent, he never gives less than his best and found
himself with a 6/5 lead, though every so often he was doubled up, as
if in pain. 6/5 up soon became 10/7 and with his first game ball
took a 1-0 lead. He raced away with the second in what seemed no
time and won it 11/5, as if to emphasise the gap between the worlds
best player and the rest. 
