Qatar Classic Is one of the world’s strongest tournaments, says Asal

DOHA : World number one Mostafa Asal said he was targeting his first QTerminals Qatar Classic title after advancing to the quarter-finals with a 3-0 win over Switzerland’s Yannick Wilhelmi on Monday.

Speaking to the Qatar News Agency (QNA), the Egyptian described the Qatar Classic as one of the most important and strongest tournaments on the squash calendar, citing its organisation and the participation of leading men’s and women’s players.

Asal, a 29-time professional title winner, said the Qatar Classic was the only major Platinum-level title he had yet to claim. He added that he would aim to reach the final and win the title after finishing runner-up in the previous two editions.

The Egyptian also praised the atmosphere in Doha and the strong support from spectators, while thanking the tournament organising committee and Qatar Squash Federation for their work in supporting the players.

Asal said the conditions in Doha encouraged players to produce their best performances and that competitors valued returning to the tournament.

The 29-year-old moved into the last eight with a straight-games victory over Wilhelmi. He will face either compatriot Aly Abou Eleinen or France’s Baptiste Masotti in the quarter-finals.

Asal’s progress keeps his bid for a first Qatar Classic title on track as the world number one continues his campaign at the Doha tournament.(QNA)