Qatar Classic Squash Championship opens with big wins and upsets

DOHA: The 2025 QTerminals Qatar Classic Squash Championship, organized by the Qatar Tennis, Squash, Padel and Badminton Federation, got underway on Sunday with top-ranked players delivering dominant performances and early surprises. The prestigious event runs until October 4 and features elite male and female players from around the world.

Qatar’s own Abdullah Al Tamimi, ranked 21st globally, delighted home fans with a commanding 3-0 victory over compatriot Ali Al Darwish (11-4, 11-7, 11-3) to reach the second round, where he will face France’s Sebastien Bonmalais.

Among the men’s highlights, Egypt’s top seed Mostafa Asal eased past India’s Ramit Tandon 3-0, while World No.2 Paul Coll of New Zealand also advanced in straight games against Malaysia’s Ng Eain Yow. A major upset came as World No.4 Joel Makin of Wales crashed out, losing 3-0 to Egyptian Mohamed Zakaria.

On the women’s side, World No.1 Nour El Sherbini began her title defense with a 3-0 win over compatriot Sanaa Ibrahim. She now faces Nour Heikal, who mounted a thrilling comeback to beat Hanan Moataz 3-2.

Khalid Al Khelaifi, Board Member of the Qatar Tennis, Squash and Badminton Federation, praised the strong competition and highlighted Qatar’s commitment to delivering world-class sporting events. He emphasized that the Qatar Classic continues to cement the country’s reputation as a leading destination for international squash.

Al Tamimi expressed joy at progressing, noting the challenge posed by his opponent and the significance of competing against the world’s best in front of a home crowd.

With top seeds advancing and shocks already unfolding, the Qatar Classic promises high drama and world-class squash action in the coming days.