Ali Farag & Nour ElSherbini win 2024 J.P Morgan Tournament of Champions titles

The 2024 J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions, the inaugural PSA World Tour Platinum event of 2024 staged under the iconic chandeliers of Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall in New York, was won by World No.1’s Ali Farag and Nour ElSherbini.

Ali Farag secured his third Tournament of Champions title with a 7-11 11-6 11-4 9-11 11-5 victory over World No.2 Diego Elias. Nour El Sherbini showed equally extraordinary resilience to successfully defend her women’s title for the fifth time, battling through injury and facing numerous setbacks to eventually overcome Nouran Gohar 9-11 4-11 11-5 11-5 11-5 to the women's final.

2024 J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions, at a glance ...

1st Round:
The 2024 J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions kicked off across four distinct venues in New York City, featuring 32 matches. Noteworthy upsets included wildcard entries Caroline Fouts and Andrew Douglas clinching victories over higher-ranked opponents Melissa Alves and Sebastien Bonmalais. Caroline Fouts, ranked 50 places below World No.20 Melissa Alves, displayed remarkable tenacity to secure a comeback win. Andrew Douglas, facing an under-the-weather Sebastien Bonmalais, maintained mental focus to emerge victorious in straight sets, setting the stage for a clash with defending champion Diego Elias.

2nd Round:
Eventual champions Nour El Sherbini and Ali Farag entered the competition after first-round byes. Nour El Sherbini swiftly dispatched England's former World No.5 Sarah-Jane Perry in a commanding 22-minute performance, whilst Ali Farag faced compatriot Omar Mosaad, continuing his unbeaten streak against him and advancing to the third round with a straight-game win.

3rd Round:
Ali Farag rebounded from a game down to overcome Baptiste Masotti to secure a quarter-final spot. Nour El Sherbini faced 19-year-old Malak Khafagy, a player who reveres her as an idol. The World No.1 exhibited her dominance, unleashing a barrage of winners to progress to the quarter-finals.

Quarter-Finals:
Nour El Sherbini faced the last American hope, Olivia Weaver in the quarter-finals whom she successfully navigated past with a typically controlled performance. Ali Farag, in another all-Egyptian clash, defeated former World Champion Tarek Momen in a strategic battle, securing his place in the final four.

Semi-Finals:
Ali Farag, facing France's Victor Crouin in the semi-finals, showed his class, accuracy and finesse to advance to the final with a commanding performance. Nour El Sherbini, battling through a back issue, displayed remarkable resilience against Hania El Hammamy, to eventually secure a place in the final.

Finals:
In a highly anticipated women's final, Nour El Sherbini faced Nouran Gohar, and after overcoming a slow start claimed her fifth Tournament of Champions title with another typically commanding display. In the men's final, Ali Farag and Diego Elias clashed for the fourth time in the 2023-24 squash season, with Ali Farag securing a 5-game victory to secure this third title in New York.

Ali Farag and Nour ElSherbini captured the 2024 J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions titles in New York with impressive victories over Diego Elias and Nouran Gohar, respectively. Ali Farag claimed his third ToC title with a hard-fought 7-11 11-6 11-4 9-11 11-5 victory over Diego Elias, whilst Nour ElSherbini overcame Nouran Gohar 9-11 4-11 11-5 11-5 11-5 to win her fifth title under the iconic chandeliers of Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall in New York.

Ali Farag claimed his fourth title of the season by fending off a resilient comeback from Diego Elias in the men’s final at the J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions, his third triumph on the iconic all-glass show court at Grand Central Terminal in New York.

The clash between the top two players in the men's game proved to be an epic encounter as each grappled for supremacy in their third meeting of the season, with the World No.1 from Egypt having emerged victorious on all three occasions.

Diego Elias dominated the middle of the court in the opening exchanges to sprint to a formidable 6-0 lead, before Farag was eventually able to mount a comeback by extending the rallies. Despite the pressure, Elias managed to secure the first game, but undeterred, Farag asserted his dominance by securing the second game 11-6.

As the contest progressed, the Egyptian top seed appeared poised to replicate his previous triumphs over his Peruvian rival, seizing control from his opponent and taking the lead for the first time by winning the third game for the loss of just four points.

Elias responded with short, sharp rallies to surge to a 6-0 advantage, and despite a valiant effort from the 31-year-old World Champion, took the fourth game on a tie-break to stay in contention.

The fifth and deciding game witnessed a determined effort from Farag, who held six championship balls before securing his hat-trick of Tournament of Champions titles at the second attempt.

World No.1 Nour El Sherbini orchestrated a remarkable comeback from a two-game deficit to secure a thrilling 64-minute 9-11 4-11 11-5 11-5 11-5 victory over 2nd seed Nouran Gohar to successfully defend her J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions title in New York City.

The Egyptian duo had previously clashed in the final of the Paris Squash 2023, where El Sherbini emerged victorious with a four-game triumph, propelling her back to the pinnacle of world rankings. However, the Grand Central showdown initially saw Nouran Gohar seizing control with her powerful ball striking into the back corners and attacking boasts.

After narrowly claiming the first game 11-9, Gohar continued to leverage her formidable power while capitalising on errors from her opponent to secure a two-game advantage.

The third game saw the defending champion successfully introduce a more varied approach to narrow the deficit, and despite requesting a new ball the at the end of the at the beginning of the fourth game, Gohar was unable to prevent El Sherbini restoring parity at two games apiece.

Despite grappling with a lower back issue sustained in her semi-final against Hania El Hammamy, the defending champion starting the deciding games by adopting a dominant stance in the middle of the court to expertly shift the momentum in her favour. The unwavering strength of the ‘Warrior Princess’ eventually proved too much for Gohar as El Sherbini earned five championship balls, securing her fifth PSA World Tour title of the season on the second attempt.

JP Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024, Grand Central Terminal, New York, USA
Men’s Final:
[1] Ali Farag (EGY) bt [2] Diego Elias (PER) 7-11, 11-6, 11-4, 9-11, 11-5 (74m)

Women’s Final:
[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bt [2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) 9-11, 4-11, 11-5, 11-5, 11-5 (64m)

Top seeds Ali Farag and Nour ElSherbini have progressed to the 2024 finals of the J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions being staged at Grand Central Terminal in New York. Ali Farag will play defending men’s champion Diego Elias with defending women’s champion Nour ElSherbini playing 2nd seed Nouran Gohar.

[1] Ali Farag (EGY) bt Victor Crouin (FRA) 11-4, 11-8, 11-7 (45m)
Ali Farag, the world's top-ranked squash player, produced a tactical masterclass to secure a decisive 45 minute 11-4 11-8 11-7 victory over Victor Crouin to earn a coveted spot in the 2024 men’s final of the J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions. A two-time champion in New York, Farag displayed dominance throughout significant portions of the match against the French No.1, marking his third appearance in the tournament's final.

The encounter marked only the third meeting between Ali Farag and Victor Crouin on the PSA World Tour, with the Egyptian emerging victorious in their previous clashes at the El Gouna Squash International and the Paris Squash. The court craft and finesse of Ali Farag was evident from the opening rallies as he strategically placed the ball, extending the rallies to exert pressure on his opponent’s physical endurance. With precision and control, the World Champion seamlessly converted six game balls in the first game.

Unyielding in his pursuit of victory, Farag seamlessly transitioned into the second game, exploiting the movements of Crouin with precise ball placement, securing five game balls. Although the Frenchman showed resilience by saving three, Farag ultimately clinched the second game to double his advantage.

Despite the Frenchman’s commendable journey in the tournament, marked by triumphs in two gruelling five-game battles and a notable victory over World No.3 Paul Coll in the semifinals, signs of fatigue were apparent. Ali Farag, however, maintained complete control, ensuring a decisive outcome, and securing his passage to the tournament final.

[2] Diego Elias (PER) bt [4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) 5-11, 11-7, 9-11, 11-3, 11-4 (90m)
Defending champion Diego Elias staged a remarkable comeback, overturning a 2-1 deficit against Mostafa Asal to secure his place in the men’s final of the 2024 J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions against Ali Farag, marking his third appearance in the final of the prestigious PSA World Tour event.

The No.2 seed faced adversity in the fourth game when an unfortunate fall into the front wall resulted in an injury. However, Diego Elias displayed resilience, returning to the court and winning 16 of the next 19 points, a turn of events that significantly shifted the momentum in his favour.

In their previous encounter at the Singapore Squash Open in November, Diego Elias emerged victorious with a 3-1 win over Moustafa Asal. Despite this, the Egyptian player took an early lead in their eagerly awaited semi-final by dominating the middle of the court and applying constant pressure.

Asal, who had a taxing 118-minute match against Mohamed ElShorbagy in the quarter-finals, showed no signs of fatigue in the first game. However, the second seeded Peruvian adjusted his strategy in the second, lengthening the rallies and absorbing Asal's pressure to level the match.

The third game saw Mostafa Asal reclaim the lead by shortening the rallies, capitalising on quick exchanges that favoured his style of play. At 4-3 up in the fourth, the defending champion experienced a setback when he fell into the front wall, prompting a lengthy injury break. Surprisingly, this break seemed to rejuvenate the defending champion, as he went on to score seven consecutive points, to level the match at two games apiece.

The deciding fifth game saw Diego Elias skilfully diffuse Asal's attempts at a comeback with the Peruvian World No.2 showing composure and efficiency in equal measure to securing his victory and advancing to the final to continue his title defence.

[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bt [3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) 11-6, 2-11, 11-9, 11-5 (46m)
A remarkable display of resilience saw reigning champion Nour ElSherbini overcome physical discomfort to secure a hard-fought 11-6 2-11 11-9 11-5 victory over Hania El Hammamy to reach the women’s final of the 2024 J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions.

Nour ElSherbini, known as 'the Warrior Princess,' demonstrated her championship mentality by pressing on despite not being at her optimal physical condition. A noticeable lower back problem surfaced towards the end of the first game, but the defending champion persevered, ultimately triumphing over her fellow Egyptian opponent in 46 minutes.

Their semi-final match marked the fifth time of the 2023-24 squash season that these two formidable players have gone head-to-head, with the previous four meetings all culminating in finals. Nour ElSherbini emerged victorious in the last three encounters, including the most recent clash at the Florida Squash Open.

The opening exchanges of their semi-final saw Hania El Hammamy competing with fiery determination, yet Nour ElSherbini swiftly assumed control, strategically moving the ball around the court and keeping the rallies short, ultimately securing the game 11-6.

During the game break, the top seed received treatment for an apparent lower back issue, and her opponent capitalised on the opportunity, convincingly winning the second game 11-2 as ElSherbini's movement became noticeably limited.

Despite grappling with restricted mobility, Nour El Sherbini displayed enough tactical prowess to regain her lead. Precise shot selection and a commitment to keeping rallies brief allowed the seven-time World Champion to maintain her edge.

Fuelled by adrenaline and unwavering determination, the top seed, even with a suspected injury, showed her champion's mettle and with the introduction of a new ball, the World No.1 proved to have too much for her opponent as she closed-out an impressive victory.

[2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bt Rowan Elaraby (EGY) 11-4, 11-7, 11-6 (40m)
No.2 seed and last year’ finalist Nouran Gohar applied skill and determination to secure her place in the women’s final of the 2024 J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions by defeating her Egyptian compatriot Rowan Elaraby 11-4 11-7 11-6 in 40 minutes.

Nouran Gohar is set to face off against the reigning World No.1, Nour El Sherbini, in a highly anticipated rematch of last year's final. Notably, the World No.3 has maintained an impeccable record in New York, having not dropped a single game enroute to the final showdown.

Rowan Elaraby, making her first PSA World Tour Platinum semi-final appearance since 2022 at the CIB Black Ball Squash Open, faced a formidable challenge after a demanding battle with Amina Orfi in the quarter-finals.

Nouran Gohar showed clinical precision against Rowan Elaraby, the powerful and accurate shots of the former World No.1 leaving Elaraby struggling to find effective responses, resulting in Gohar convincingly taking the first game 11-4.

The second game witnessed an extension of rally lengths as Elaraby found her rhythm, employing volleys and testing Gohar's resilience. However, the No.2 seed held her ground to secure a convincing two-game lead.

Despite an extended absence from a significant portion of the 2023-24 squash season due to injury, the return of Nouran Gohar has been impressive with the Egyptian cruising through the final in just under 40 minutes.

JP Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024, Grand Central Terminal, New York, USA
Men’s Semi-Finals:
[1] Ali Farag (EGY) bt [9/16] Victor Crouin (FRA) 11-4, 11-8, 11-7 (45m)
[2] Diego Elias (PER) bt [4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) 5-11, 11-7, 9-11, 11-3, 11-4 (90m)

Women’s Semi-Finals:
[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bt [3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) 11-6, 2-11, 11-9, 11-5 (46m)
[2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bt [9/16] Rowan Elaraby (EGY) 11-4, 11-7, 11-6 (40m)

The semi-finals of the J.P. Tournament of Champions in New York will feature Ali Farag, Victor Crouin, Diego Elias, Mostafa Asal, Nour ElSherbini, Hania El Hammamy, Nouran Gohar and Rowan Elaraby after a successful of closely fought quarter-final matches staged across consecutive days under chandeliers at the spectacular Grand Central Terminal in New York.

[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bt [8] Olivia Weaver (USA) 11-9, 11-4, 11-7 (33m)
Defending women’s champion Nour El Sherbini extinguished the last glimmer of American hope at the J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions by defeating USA's Olivia Weaver 11-9 11-4 11-7 in 33 minutes to secure her spot in the semi-finals. The clash at Grand Central marked the culmination of impressive run by Olivia Weaver who was the sole remaining American contender in the quarter-finals.

Nour El Sherbini, the World No.1, reigning World Squash Champion and top seed, maintained her unblemished record against Olivia Weaver, having triumphed in all five of their prior encounters. This showdown came on the heels of their recent face-off in the semi-finals of the Florida Squash Open, underlining the Egyptian's dominance in their head-to-head battles.

Despite an initially spirited performance from Olivia Weaver, buoyed by the fervent home crowd, Nour El Sherbini seized control and clinched the first game by converting her second game ball opportunity. The second game saw Nour El Sherbini surge to a commanding 9-3 lead after her opponent had matched her in the early exchanges.

With a two-game advantage, Nour El Sherbini maintained her dominance in the third game, claiming the game 11-7, to securing her place in the semi-finals and remains on track to defend her title.

[1] Ali Farag (EGY) bt [8] Tarek Momen (EGY) 11-6, 9-11, 11-4, 11-8 (61m)
Two-time J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions winner Ali Farag defeated fellow Egyptian Tarek Momen in a four-game battle, 11-6 9-11 11-4 11-8 in 61 minutes, to take his place in the semi-finals of the prestigious squash tournament in New York.

The match marked the third encounter between Ali Farag and Tarek Momen this season, all of which at PSA World Tour Platinum events. The World No.1 had previously needed five games to overcome Tarek Momen at the U.S. Squash Open in October and need to be on his best form to force on a series of unforced errors from his compatriot to claim the first game.

Although Tarek Momen found his footing in the second game, steadfastly countering his opponent’s attacks and reducing his own error count, it was not enough to secure a lead. Ali Farag roared back in the third game, establishing a commanding 7-1 lead as Tarek Momen struggled with errors, allowing the top seed to regain control.

A tactical move came at the beginning of the fourth game as Tarek Momen requested a fresh ball. However, this did little to alter the course of the match, as errors persisted from his racket. Ali Farag seized the opportunity, capitalising on his opponent’s mistakes and advancing decisively to the tournament's last four.

[3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) bt Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY) 11-9, 11-6, 11-7 (35m)
World No.2 Hania El Hammamy secured a convincing spot in the semi-finals by defeating fellow Egyptian Fayrouz Aboelkheir 11-9 11-6 11-7 in 35 minutes of a fiercely contested match.

The match marked only the second time these Egyptian talents have faced off on the PSA World Tour, with their previous encounter at the Grasshopper Cup earlier in the season resulting in a straight-game win for Hania El Hammamy. The World No.2 replicated her success, showing sharpness and elevating the pace to pose significant challenges for her opponent in a match that experienced intermittent disruptions in flow.

Hania El Hammamy clinched the opening game 11-9 and continued to assert her dominance in the second game, capitalising on key errors from Fayrouz Aboelkheir to double her advantage over the 17-year-old, who was making her PSA World Tour Platinum quarter-final debut.

Undeterred by the stakes, Hania El Hammamy maintained her impeccable movement and sharpness in the third game, pressing on to secure a semi-final showdown with Nour El Sherbini.

Victor Crouin (FRA) bt [3] Paul Coll (NZL) 16-14, 11-7, 11-5 (65m)
French No.1 Victor Crouin delivered a flawless performance to surprise World No.3 Paul Coll, securing a berth in his first PSA World Tour Platinum semi-final since 2022 with a stunning 16-14 11-7 11-5 upset in 65 minutes.

Executing impeccable tactics, the World No.11 orchestrated a perfect game plan against Paul Coll, who had recently claimed consecutive PSA World Tour Platinum titles at the U.S. Squash Open and the Hong Kong Squash Open. The intensity of their monumental first game lasted 32 minutes, with Victor Crouin clinching a crucial one-game lead after an intense tiebreak that concluded 16-14.

Despite his best efforts of Paul Coll to mount a response and seize control in the subsequent exchanges, Victor Crouin showed resilience to build upon his momentum from the initial game. The French player secured a vital two-game advantage, creating a formidable challenge for Paul Coll to overcome. Victor Crouin demonstrated unyielding determination in the third game, where he found himself with six match balls. Although Paul Coll managed to save one, Victor Crouin secured his semi-final spot on the second attempt, marking a historic achievement in the J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions.

[2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bt [6] Nour El Tayeb (EGY) 11-8, 12-10, 11-5 (38m)
In a riveting display of skill and determination, defending women’s champion Nouran Gohar reached the this year's semi-finals by overpowering compatriot Nour El Tayeb in a commanding 38 minute 11-8 12-10 11-5 victory. The quarter-final showdown marked their 19th encounter on the PSA World Tour, with memories lingering from the previous season's tournament, where Nouran Gohar emerged triumphant in a gripping five-game duel.

Former World No.1 Nouran Gohar, showed her dominance from the outset, surging to a 4-0 lead in the opening game. Despite the efforts of Nour El Tayeb to find her rhythm and slow down the pace, Nouran Gohar maintained her relentless pursuit, ultimately securing the first game with a decisive 11-8 scoreline.

Nour El Tayeb, who had last defeated Nouran Gohar in 2019 at the China Squash Open, responded tenaciously in the second game. Exploiting Nouran Gohar in the front corner and earning four game balls, Nour El Tayeb seemed poised to level the playing field. However, Nouran Gohar, with a resolute display on her backhand, extinguished all four opportunities emphatically, clinching the tiebreak and doubling her lead.

Buoyed by confidence, Nouran Gohar initiated another swift start in the third game, amassing five match balls. The World No.3 capitalised on the opportunity, converting at the first attempt to secure her coveted place in the semi-finals.

Her latest performance in New York this year ensured that Nouran Gohan maintained a flawless record without dropping a single game. As she progresses in the tournament, her unwavering determination and strategic prowess position her as a formidable force to be reckoned with.

[2] Diego Elias (PER) bt [6] Mazen Hesham (EGY) 11-4, 11-3, 11-4 (39m)
Defending his men’s title with finesse, Diego Elias produced a masterful performance, securing a coveted spot in the semi-finals by triumphing over Mazen Hesham 11-4 11-3 11-4 in 39 minutes.

In a turnaround from their recent encounter at the Florida Squash Open, where Mazen Hesham emerged victorious in the semi-finals, Diego Elias showed tactical brilliance to continue his title defence in New York.

Diego Elias, renowned for his impeccable backhand, posed a formidable challenge for Mazen Hesham from the onset. The opening game saw Diego Elias executing flawless drop shots and precise lengths, ultimately claiming the victory with a commanding 11-4 scoreline. Notably, Diego Elias maintained an error-free performance in the first game, with his precise width and length leaving Mazen Hesham struggling for answers, while the Egyptian grappled with costly mistakes.

Mazen Hesham, who had broken a streak of nine matches without a win against Diego Elias in their recent Florida Squash Open encounter, found himself once again grappling with the tactical acumen of the Peruvian after going two games down. The third game mirrored the earlier pattern, with the defending champion asserting complete control and sealing the match with a resounding straight-game victory.

Rowan Elaraby (EGY) bt Amina Orfi (EGY) 11-7, 10-12, 11-9, 18-16 (89m)
A captivating display by Rowan Elaraby saw her advance to the semi-finals of a PSA World Tour Platinum event for the first time since 2022, overcoming fellow Egyptian Amina Orfi 11-7 10-12 11-9 18-16 in a thrilling 89-minute encounter.

Rowan Elaraby made her last appearance in the last four of a major squash event dates back to the CIB Black Ball Squash Open in 2022, where she faced the formidable Nour El Sherbini. The World No.12 showcased remarkable prowess in her recent clash against the teenage sensation Amina Orfi, producing a fine performance to secure a hard-fought victory.

In their maiden encounter on the PSA World Tour, Rowan Elaraby made a positive, strategically keeping Amina Orfi at bay by varying the pace and capitalising on opportunities as they presented themselves. After claiming the first game, Rowan Elaraby continued her dominance into the second, gaining momentum. However, the dynamics shifted when a conduct stroke was awarded against Amina Orfi for a forceful shot into the back of her opponent's leg. Despite a closely contested game, Amina Orfi managed to clinch a tiebreak 12-10 to level the match.

Rowan Elaraby, adept at dictating the pace, maintained a 9-5 lead in the third game, only to see Amina Orfi mount a comeback. Undeterred, Rowan Elaraby swiftly regained the lead by converting a game ball on her first attempt. A request for a new ball from Amina Orfi seemed to provide a lifeline as she secured two game balls to potentially level the match once again. However, Rowan Elaraby resiliently saved both, leading to another tiebreak. In a tense exchange, the 23-year-old saw a match ball slip away as she hit the ball out of court.

Amina Orfi, seizing the opportunity, garnered two game balls, both of which Rowan Elaraby adeptly saved. The drama unfolded further as Rowan Elaraby then had four match ball opportunities, finally securing her spot in the semi-finals on the fifth attempt, concluding a monumental tiebreak.

[4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) bt [5] Mohamed ElShorbagy (ENG) 11-5, 11-7, 9-11, 11-13, 11-9 (118m)
Mostafa Asal, the 'Raging Bull' advanced to the semi-finals in New York for the first time in his career, fending off a resilient comeback from Mohamed ElShorbagy in the latest quarter-final showdown.

The younger former World No.1, coming off three consecutive victories, faced off against Mohamed ElShorbagy in a rematch from their recent clash in the semi-finals of the Florida Squash Open, where Mostafa Asal emerged triumphant in five games. This time, the World No.4 replicated the same scoreline, overcoming the formidable challenge posed by 'The Beast.'

The opening game set the tone for Mostafa Asal, who maintained a comfortable lead over Mohamed ElShorbagy, securing the crucial first game. Despite disruptions in the flow of the second game due to several refereeing decisions, Mostafa Asal extended his advantage as errors proved costly for his opponent.

Mohamed ElShorbagy, recognising the need for a response, staged a remarkable comeback in the third game, overcoming a 6-3 deficit to ultimately win 11-9 and narrow the overall scoreline.

The fourth game witnessed a brief pause due to a blood injury for Mostafa Asal, but ElShorbagy capitalised on gaining higher positioning on the court as he grew in confidence. Despite Mostafa Asal saving multiple game balls, Mohamed ElShorbagy eventually forced a tiebreak, levelling the match at two games apiece.

The deciding fifth game saw early dominance from Mostafa Asal, establishing a lead. However, as expected, ElShorbagy mounted a fierce comeback, tying the scores at 9-9. In a tense moment, Mostafa Asal earned a match ball after ElShorbagy was deemed to have carried the ball onto his racket. Mostafa Asal seized the opportunity, ultimately clinching the match after 118 minutes of dramatic and pulsating action.

JP Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024, Grand Central Terminal, New York, USA
Men’s Quarter-Finals:
[1] Ali Farag (EGY) bt [8] Tarek Momen (EGY) 11-6, 9-11, 11-4, 11-8 (61m)
[9/16] Victor Crouin (FRA) bt [3] Paul Coll (NZL) 16-14, 11-7, 11-5 (65m)
[4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) bt [5] Mohamed ElShorbagy (ENG) 11-5, 11-7, 9-11, 11-13, 11-9 (118m)
[2] Diego Elias (PER) bt [6] Mazen Hesham (EGY) 11-4, 11-3, 11-4 (39m)

Women’s Quarter-Finals:
[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bt [8] Olivia Weaver (USA) 11-9, 11-4, 11-7 (33m)
[3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) bt Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY) 11-9, 11-6, 11-7 (35m)
[9/16] Rowan Elaraby (EGY) bt [9/16] Amina Orfi (EGY) 11-7, 10-12, 11-9, 18-16 (89m)
[2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bt [6] Nour El Tayeb (EGY) 11-8, 12-10, 11-5 (38m)

JP Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024, Grand Central Terminal, New York, USA
Men’s 3 Round:
[1] Ali Farag (EGY) bt [9/16] Baptiste Masotti (FRA) 8-11, 11-2, 11-1, 11-8 (42m)
[8] Tarek Momen (EGY) bt Iker Pajares (ESP) 11-4, 8-11, 11-8, 11-6 (60m)
[9/16] Victor Crouin (FRA) bt [7] Marwan ElShorbagy (ENG) 7-11, 12-10, 11-3, 9-11, 11-7 (75m)
[3] Paul Coll (NZL) bt Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) 11-5, 11-3, 11-2 (33m)
[4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) bt Mohamed Abouelghar (EGY) 11-6, 11-8, 11-3 (42m)
[5] Mohamed ElShorbagy (ENG) bt Nathan Lake (ENG) 11-9, 8-11, 11-9, 11-1 (40m)
[6] Mazen Hesham (EGY) bt [9/16] Fares Dessouky (EGY)    11-6, 11-5, 11-9 (49m)
[2] Diego Elias (PER) bt Youssef Ibrahim (EGY) 9-11, 11-5, 11-6, 11-2 (62m)

Women’s 3rd Round:
[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bt Malak Khafagy (EGY) 11-7, 11-4, 11-4 (23m)
[8] Olivia Weaver (USA) bt Lucy Beecroft (ENG) 11-6, 11-7, 11-8 (33m)
Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY) bt [9/16] Salma Hany (EGY) 11-5, 11-9, 11-7 (32m)
[3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) bt [9/16] Satomi Watanabe (JPN) 11-3, 5-11, 14-12, 12-10 (55m)
[9/16] Rowan Elaraby (EGY) bt [4] Nele Gilis (BEL) 11-7, 1-11, 13-11, 10-12, 11-8 (84m)
[9/16] Amina Orfi (EGY) bt [7] Tinne Gilis (BEL) 7-11, 11-4, 5-11, 11-9, 11-9 (82m)
[6] Nour El Tayeb (EGY) bt [9/16] Sabrina Sobhy (USA) 11-3, 6-11, 11-4, 11-7 (36m)
[2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bt Mariam Metwally (EGY) 11-7, 11-2, 11-6 (24m)

JP Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024, Grand Central Terminal, New York, USA
Men’s 2nd Round:
[1] Ali Farag (EGY) bt Omar Mosaad (EGY) 11-2, 13-11, 11-2 (31m)
[9/16] Baptiste Masotti (FRA) bt Ramit Tandon (IND) 4-11, 11-8, 11-9, 13-11 (42m)
Iker Pajares (ESP) bt Grégoire Marche (FRA) 12-14, 11-8, 11-5, 11-2 (63m)
[8] Tarek Momen (EGY) bt Faraz Khan (USA) 11-6, 11-5, 11-9 (31m)
[7] Marwan ElShorbagy (ENG) bt Tsz Kwan Lau (HKG) 12-10, 11-7, 10-12, 11-9 (44m)
[9/16] Victor Crouin (FRA) bt [9/16] Youssef Soliman (EGY) 11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 6-11, 11-4 (81m)
Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) bt [9/16] Aly Abou Eleinen (EGY) 15-13, 11-9, 16-14 (62m)
[3] Paul Coll (NZL) bt [9/16] Eain Yow Ng (MAS) 11-6, 11-8, 11-3 (35m)
[4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) bt Patrick Rooney (ENG) 11-5, 11-6, 11-6 (48m)
Mohamed Abouelghar (EGY) bt Greg Lobban (SCO) 11-5, 15-13, 11-8 (42m)
Nathan Lake (ENG) bt [9/16] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) 9-11, 12-10, 11-3, 11-6 (49m)
[5] Mohamed ElShorbagy (ENG) bt Cesar Salazar (MEX) 11-7, 11-8, 11-3 (37m)
[6] Mazen Hesham (EGY) bt Auguste Dussourd (FRA) 7-11, 11-6, 11-5, 11-8 (51m)
[9/16] Fares Dessouky (EGY) bt [9/16] Miguel Rodriguez (COL) 11-5, 11-9, 6-11, 11-8 (61m)
Youssef Ibrahim (EGY) bt Nick Wall (ENG) 13-11, 11-8, 8-11, 11-5 (53m)
[2] Diego Elias (PER) bt [WC] Andrew Douglas (USA) 11-4, 11-5, 11-8 (39m)

Women’s 2nd Round:
[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bt [9/16] Sarah-Jane Perry (ENG) 11-6, 11-4, 11-5 (22m)
Malak Khafagy (EGY) bt Tomato Ho (HKG) 11-8, 11-6, 11-6 (33m)
Lucy Beecroft (ENG) bt Georgia Adderley (SCO) 6-11, 11-9, 9-11, 11-3, 11-9 (65m)
[8] Olivia Weaver (USA) bt [9/16] Farida Mohamed (EGY) 11-5, 11-3, 9-11, 11-4 (34m)
[9/16] Salma Hany (EGY) bt [5] Georgina Kennedy (ENG) 12-10, 8-11, 10-12, 11-3, 11-7 (57m)
Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY) bt Hana Ramadan (EGY) 11-5, 11-7, 5-11, 11-8 (33m)
[9/16] Satomi Watanabe (JPN) bt Nicole Bunyan (CAN) 11-9, 13-11, 11-4 (34m)
[3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) bt Hana Moataz (EGY) 11-9, 11-8, 11-8 (34m)
[4] Nele Gilis (BEL) bt Sana Ibrahim (EGY) 11-6, 11-9, 11-5 (39m)
[9/16] Rowan Elaraby (EGY) bt Lucy Turmel (ENG) 14-12, 11-8, 11-7 (41m)
[9/16] Amina Orfi (EGY) bt Nadine Shahin (EGY) 11-3, 11-5, 11-6 (26m)
[7] Tinne Gilis (BEL) bt [WC] Caroline Fouts (USA) 11-5, 11-6, 11-5 (31m)
[6] Nour El Tayeb (EGY) bt Emily Whitlock (WAL) 11-6, 11-4, 13-11 (46m)
[9/16] Sabrina Sobhy (USA) bt [9/16] Sivasangari Subramaniam (MAS) 11-9, 11-7, 11-4 (37m)
Mariam Metwally (EGY) bt Zeina Mickawy (EGY) 11-4, 11-5, 11-8 (25m)
[2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bt Rachel Arnold (MAS) 11-1, 11-4, 11-6 (23m)

JP Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024, Grand Central Terminal, New York, USA
Men’s 1st Round:
[1] Ali Farag (EGY) bye
Omar Mosaad (EGY) bt Rory Stewart (SCO) 11-9, 13-11, 7-11, 11-9 (59m)
[9/16] Baptiste Masotti (FRA) bye
Ramit Tandon (IND) bt Saurav Ghosal (IND) 11-3, 8-11, 11-7, 11-7 (49m)
Iker Pajares (ESP) bt Balázs Farkas (HUN) 11-8, 11-1, 12-10 (47m)
Grégoire Marche (FRA) bt Henry Leung (HKG) 11-6, 11-4, 11-6 (39m)
Faraz Khan (USA) bt Abdulla Al-Tamimi (QAT) 11-9, 10-12, 11-3, 11-6 (35m)
[8] Tarek Momen (EGY) bye
[7] Marwan ElShorbagy (ENG) bye
Tsz Kwan Lau (HKG) bt Leonel Cardenas (MEX) 11-9, 11-9, 9-11, 12-10 (46m)
[9/16] Youssef Soliman (EGY) bye
[9/16] Victor Crouin (FRA) bye
Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) bt Nicolas Müller (SUI) 6-11, 11-9, 12-10, 12-10 (47m)
[9/16] Aly Abou Eleinen (EGY) bye
[9/16] Eain Yow Ng (MAS) bye
[3] Paul Coll (NZL) bye
[4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) bye
Patrick Rooney (ENG) bt Shahjahan Khan (USA) 11-4, 11-9, 11-2 (35m)
Greg Lobban (SCO) bt Leandro Romiglio (ARG) 11-8, 11-7, 11-7 (39m)
Mohamed Abouelghar (EGY) bt David Baillargeon (CAN) 11-3, 11-7, 11-5 (29m)
Nathan Lake (ENG) bt Karim El Hammamy (EGY) 9-11, 11-3, 11-5, 11-4 (42m)
[9/16] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) bye
Cesar Salazar (MEX) bt Raphael Kandra (GER) 11-9, 6-11, 12-10, 11-8 (45m)
[5] Mohamed ElShorbagy (ENG) bye
[6] Mazen Hesham (EGY) bye
Auguste Dussourd (FRA) bt [WC] Nick Spizzirri (USA) 11-6, 11-8, 7-11, 11-4 (43m)
[9/16] Fares Dessouky (EGY) bye
[9/16] Miguel Rodriguez (COL) bye
Youssef Ibrahim (EGY) bt Timothy Brownell (USA) 11-7, 8-11, 11-7, 11-5 (43m)
Nick Wall (ENG) bt Curtis Malik (ENG) 11-2, 11-2, 11-2 (18m)
[WC] Andrew Douglas (USA) bt Sébastien Bonmalais (FRA) 11-5, 12-10, 11-5 (32m)
[2] Diego Elias (PER) bye

JP Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024, Grand Central Terminal, New York, USA
Women’s 1st Round:
[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bye
[9/16] Sarah-Jane Perry (ENG) bye
Tomato Ho (HKG) bt Emilia Soini (FIN) 11-8, 11-7, 11-2 (23m)
Malak Khafagy (EGY) bt Tesni Murphy (WAL) 13-11, 4-11, 11-2, 11-6 (40m)
Lucy Beecroft (ENG) bt Ineta Hopton (LAT) 11-9, 11-2, 9-11, 11-3 (31m)
Georgia Adderley (SCO) bt Grace Gear (ENG) 13-11, 11-2, 11-6 (30m)
[9/16] Farida Mohamed (EGY) bye
[8] Olivia Weaver (USA) bye
[5] Georgina Kennedy (ENG) bye
[9/16] Salma Hany (EGY) bye
Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY) bt Anna Serme (CZE) 11-2, 11-4, 11-2 (16m)
Hana Ramadan (EGY) bt Millie Tomlinson (ENG) 11-4, 11-4, 11-6 (23m)
[9/16] Satomi Watanabe (JPN) bye
Nicole Bunyan (CAN) bt Hollie Naughton (CAN) 11-3, 11-7, 11-6 (26m)
Hana Moataz (EGY) bt Ka Yi Lee (HKG) 13-15, 11-9, 11-3, 11-7 (39m)
[3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) bye
[4] Nele Gilis (BEL) bye
Sana Ibrahim (EGY) bt Salma Eltayeb (EGY) 11-7, 13-11, 11-9 (39m)
[9/16] Rowan Elaraby (EGY) bye
Lucy Turmel (ENG) bt Charlotte Pastel (USA) 11-3, 11-4, 11-0 (22m)
Nadine Shahin (EGY) bt Nour Aboulmakarim (EGY) 11-7, 11-5, 8-11, 11-5 (31m)
[9/16] Amina Orfi (EGY) bye
[WC] Caroline Fouts (USA) bt Mélissa Alves (FRA) 10-12, 11-8, 7-11, 11-8, 11-3 (57m)
[7] Tinne Gilis (BEL) bye
[6] Nour El Tayeb (EGY) bye
Emily Whitlock (WAL) bt Énora Villard (FRA) 11-4, 8-11, 11-3, 11-4 (38m)
[9/16] Sivasangari Subramaniam (MAS) bye
[9/16] Sabrina Sobhy (USA) bye
Zeina Mickawy (EGY) bt Kenzy Ayman (EGY) 12-10, 8-11, 11-1, 11-13, 11-6 (42m)
Mariam Metwally (EGY) bt Marie Stéphan (FRA) 11-5, 11-8, 11-1 (22m)
Rachel Arnold (MAS) bt Tsz-Wing Tong (HKG) 11-7, 11-9, 11-7 (29m)
[2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bye

The J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions, an esteemed fixture on the Professional Squash Association (PSA) World Tour squash calendar, will kickstart the PSA World Tour Platinum event series for 2024, drawing the world's finest players to the iconic Grand Central Terminal in New York, USA from the 17th to 25th January.

World Squash Champions Ali Farag and Nour El Sherbini of Egypt headline as the top seeds for the 2024 edition, set to unfold across five distinguished venues. Early matches will unfold across the Nicol Squash Club, New York Athletic Club, River Club of New York, Harvard Club of New York, and the illustrious Vanderbilt Hall within Grand Central Terminal - a setting that will host eight days of intense action on the spectacular all-glass show court.

Men's World No.1, Ali Farag, eyes a triumphant return after missing last year's event, and will be looking for a third PSA World Tour Platinum title of the 2023-24 squash season and a third victory in New York. However, recent defeats to Paul Coll in the finals of the U.S. Squash Open and Hiong Kong Squash Open loom large, setting the stage for a potential collision in the semi-finals.

Paul Coll enters with an impressive track record this season, securing three titles out of four finals, including two prestigious PSA World Tour Platinum victories. Fresh from an emotional win at the Lucino Vanities New Zealand Men's Squash Open, Paul Coll brims with confidence, seeking a historic third consecutive triumph in New York and his maiden Tournament of Champions trophy.

Defending champion Diego Elias will be eager to replicate his winning form under Grand Central's chandeliers. His ascent to World No.1 since that victory amplifies expectations as he gears up to defend his crown against formidable opponents.

Beyond the top three, a pack of contenders all harbour aspirations of disrupting the hierarchy. The Egyptian trio of Mostafa Asal, Mazen Hesham, and Tarek Momen possess the prowess to shake the established order, each presenting unique challenges to the frontrunners.

The seasoned English brothers, Mohamed and Marwan ElShorbagy, both seeded within the top eight, bring their storied presence to the event. Mohamed ElShorbagy, a three-time Tournament of Champions winner, eyes a potential milestone - a fourth title that would mark his 50th PSA World Tour event victory. Meanwhile, Marwan ElShorbagy harnesses newfound form on the PSA World Tour, poised to surpass last year's performance and seize victory.

In the women's draw, four-time Tournament of Champions winner Nour El Sherbini targets yet another PSA World Tour Platinum title to fortify her reign as the World No.1 following an unexpected loss at the recent Hong Kong Squash Open against American favourite Amanda Sobhy who is sidelined by injury and will be sorely missed.

Compatriot Nouran Gohar, recovering from a foot injury, assumes the No.2 seed, aiming to put her health woes behind and claim a second Tournament of Champions (ToC) title. Conversely, Hania El Hammamy, despite her outstanding form, seeks to conquer the elusive Tournament of Champions title and confronts the prospect of meeting with Nour El Sherbini in the semi-finals, should seedings align.

Belgian sisters Nele Gillis and Tinne Gilis emerge as formidable contenders having showed impressive form in the season's first half. Nele Gillis has risen to a career-high World No.4 and Tinne Gillis is seeded No.8 in readiness to challenge any opponent on their day, posing a threat to the established hierarchy.

J.P Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024 Men’s Draw:
[1] Ali Farag (EGY) bye
Rory Stewart (SCO) v [17/32] Omar Mosaad (EGY)
[9/16] Baptiste Masotti (FRA) bye
Ramit Tandon (IND) v [17/32] Saurav Ghosal (IND)
[17/32] Iker Pajares (ESP) v Sebastien Bonmalais (FRA)
Dimitri Steinmann (SUI) v [17/32] Gregoire Marche (FRA)
[17/32] Abdulla Altamimi (QAT) v Faraz Khan (USA)
[8] Tarek Momen (EGY) bye
[7] Marwan ElShorbagy (ENG) bye
Tsz Kwan Lau (HKG) v [17/32] Leonel Cardenas (MEX)
[9/16] Youssef Soliman (EGY) bye
[9/16] Victor Crouin (FRA) bye
[17/32] Nicolas Mueller (SUI) v Yahya Elnawasany (EGY)
[9/16] Aly Abou Eleinen (EGY) bye
[9/16] Joel Makin (WAL) bye
[3] Paul Coll (NZL) bye
[4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) bye
Shahjahan Khan (USA) v [17/32] Patrick Rooney (ENG)
[17/32] Greg Lobban (SCO) v Leandro Romiglio (ARG)
David Baillargeon (CAN) v [17/32] Mohamed Abouelghar (EGY)
[17/32] Nathan Lake (ENG) v Karim El Hammamy (EGY)
[9/16] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) bye
[17/32] Raphael Kandra (GER) v Cesar Salazar (MEX)
[5] Mohamed ElShorbagy (ENG) bye
[6] Mazen Hesham (EGY) bye
[Qualifier] v [17/32] Auguste Dussourd (FRA)
[9/16] Fares Dessouky (EGY) bye
[9/16] Miguel Rodriguez (COL) bye
[17/32] Youssef Ibrahim (EGY) v Timothy Brownell (USA)
Curtis Malik (ENG) v [17/32] Nick Wall (ENG)
[17/32] Eain Yow Ng (MAS) v [WC] Andrew Douglas (USA)
[2] Diego Elias (PER) bye

J.P Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024 Women’s Draw:
[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bye
[9/16] Sarah-Jane Perry (ENG) bye
[17/32] Tomato Ho (HKG) v Nadine Shahin (EGY)
Malak Khafagy (EGY) v [17/32] Tesni Evans (WAL)
[17/32] Lucy Beecroft (ENG) v Georgia Adderley (SCO)
Grace Gear (ENG) v [17/32] Aifa Azman (MAS)
[9/16] Olivia Weaver (USA) bye
[7] Joelle King (NZL) bye
[5] Georgina Kennedy (ENG) bye
[9/16] Salma Hany (EGY) bye
[17/32] Jasmine Hutton (ENG) v Hana Moataz (EGY)
Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY) v [17/32] Hana Ramadan (EGY)
[9/16] Satomi Watanabe (JPN) bye
Nicole Bunyan (CAN) v [17/32] Hollie Naughton (CAN)
[17/32] Farida Mohamed (EGY) v Ka Yi Lee (HKG)
[3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) bye
[4] Nele Gilis (BEL) bye
Salma Eltayeb (EGY) v [17/32] Sana Ibrahim (EGY)
[9/16] Rowan Elaraby (EGY) bye
[Qualifier] v [17/32] Lucy Turmel (ENG)
[17/32] Nada Abbas (EGY) v Nour Aboulmakarim (EGY)
[9/16] Amina Orfi (EGY) bye
[17/32] Melissa Alves (FRA) v [WC] Caroline Fouts (USA)
[8] Tinne Gilis (BEL) bye
[6] Nour El Tayeb (EGY) bye
Enora Villard (FRA) v [17/32] Emily Whitlock (WAL)
[9/16] Sivasangari Subramaniam (MAS) bye
[9/16] Sabrina Sobhy (USA) bye
[17/32] Zeina Mickawy (EGY) v Kenzy Ayman (EGY)
Marie Stephan (FRA) v [17/32] Mariam Metwally (EGY)
[17/32] Rachel Arnold (MAS) v Tsz-Wing Tong (HKG)
[2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bye