Egyptian squash player Ali Farag continued his title defence campaign at the Q-Terminals Qatar Classic in Doha, facing stiff competition from compatriot Youssef Soliman. Farag, the World No.1, was pushed to his limits, losing the first game but rallying back to win the next three and secure a spot in the quarter-finals. Farag, who has only suffered one defeat to Soliman in their previous eight meetings, credited his team for helping him make the necessary adjustments to secure the victory.
Farag, a three-time Qatar Classic champion, expressed his love for playing in Qatar, citing the Arab support and hospitality that makes him feel at home. He is looking forward to further progressing in the tournament and potentially matching Mohamed ElShorbagy’s record of winning the most Qatar Classic titles. Farag’s next opponent in the quarter-finals is Swiss player Nicholas Mueller, who caused an upset by defeating last year’s semi-finalist Mazen Hesham in the previous round.
Mueller, who secured his first win against Hesham in their last ten matches, expressed his excitement for the quarter-final clash with Farag, acknowledging the tough challenge ahead. The Swiss player has fond memories of competing in Qatar, including a memorable victory over former champion Amr Shabana. With a day of rest before facing Farag, Mueller is optimistic about his chances and eager to test his skills against the world’s best players.
In the men’s competition, former World Champion Tarek Momen of Egypt also advanced to the quarter-finals after defeating Frenchman Sebastien Bonmalais. Momen will face reigning World Champion Diego Elias of Peru in the next round, setting up an exciting battle between two top players. Meanwhile, on the women’s side, World No.1 Nour El Sherbini and Hania El Hammamy of Egypt both secured spots in the quarter-finals with impressive wins over their opponents.
The women’s quarter-finals will feature El Sherbini facing off against England’s Georgina Kennedy, while El Hammamy will take on Belgium’s Tinne Gilis. With strong performances from both the Egyptian and international players, the Qatar Classic promises to deliver thrilling matches as the tournament progresses. Fans can look forward to watching top squash talent showcase their skills on the court in Doha.
