El Shorbagy emerges champion

Doha: Egypt’s Mohamed El Shorbagy defeated compatriot Tarek Momen (3-1) 11-8, 10-12, 11-7, 11-7 in just over an hour to win the Qatar Classic at Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex on Friday.

It was El Shorbagy’s third triumph in the PSA World Series tournament in the Qatari capital.

“I’m extremely proud of how I performed this week at this event,” said ElShorbagy.

“When I saw the draw pre-event I knew it would be tough. I had to play the World No.9, the No.5, the No.1 and the No.7 to win, but playing tough opponents is the challenge that I live for. To be the best you have to beat these players.

“At the end of the day you want to challenge yourself against the best. Backing it up mentally each day was not easy – but I’m really happy. Last season I didn’t play like a winner – this week I feel like I played at my best level and that was my focus coming here,” he added.