Former World Champion Rodney Martin looks for to the new PSA World Tour season

With the much-anticipated return of a major squash to the French capital later this month for the Paris Squash Alpine, all eyes are on the upcoming PSA World Tour Platinum event.

For former World Squash Champion Rod Martin of Australia, who once frequented France during the heyday of the 1980s and 90s, this marks a thrilling moment as he oversees the pre-season preparations of some of the sport's top players.

In an exclusive interview with the Professional Squash Association (PSA), Rodney Martin, the only player to defeat both Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan in the same tournament, reminisces about his participation in the former French Open Squash Championship and other prestigious French tournaments, as well as his involvement in the French League. Now, his focus lies on guiding the progress of World No.1 Nouran Gohar, and England's Marwan ElShorbagy, while recently welcoming USA No.2, Olivia Fiechter, to his Connecticut training stable.

As the new season approaches, starting with the PSA Windsor Cup in mid-August, all eyes are on the Paris Squash Alpine. Rodney Martin is eager to witness the results of the players' hard work throughout the summer, especially with this being the first major event for many after a long hiatus.

Highlighting the significance of a PSA Platinum event like the Paris Squash Alpine, Martin draws parallels with iconic venues like the Pyramids in Egypt, which have successfully elevated the sport by providing spectacular backdrops for squash events. The allure of playing at an iconic location such as the Palais de Tokyo, with the Eiffel Tower in the background, adds an extra dimension to the tournament and promises to captivate fans.

Nouran Gohar, the top seed in the women's draw, garners praise from Martin, who believes she has the potential to elevate her game to another level. Working closely with her, he is confident in her ability to win numerous events, and they aim to strategise her calendar to optimise performance and minimise fatigue.

Olivia Fiechter's recent improvements have caught Rodney's attention, and he is optimistic about her potential to break into the top ranks. With a focus on physical training and technical enhancements, she could well secure a spot among the world's top six players.

Marwan ElShorbagy's recent switch to representing England will not affect his partnership with Martin. The Egyptian player's hunger for success and ambition to claim major titles are key drivers as they work together to refine his game and achieve his goals.

As the upcoming season unfolds, all eyes will be on Paris Squash Alpine, where the competition promises to be fierce. Martin believes that Marwan ElShorbagy, along with several other talented players, stands a chance at clinching the top spot, but the unpredictable nature of squash draws adds an element of excitement and uncertainty to the mix.

The return of major squash to Paris has generated considerable buzz and anticipation. With players like Nouran Gohar, Olivia Fiechter, and Marwan ElShorbagy pushing the boundaries, this season promises to be one of thrilling competition and high-level performances. As the squash world awaits the grand return, all eyes will be on the Paris Squash Alpine for the excitement it holds.

For full interview, visit: psaworldtour.com