Tarek Momen wins PSA Windsor Cup in Ontario, Canada

Top seed Tarek Momen defeated fellow Egyptian Youssef Soliman 11-8 11-5 3-11 8-11 11-7 to win the Windsor Cup in Ontario, Canada - the inaugural championship of the 2023-24 PSA World Tour season.

Momen's stature as the frontrunner was evident from the outset, backed by his impeccable record of triumphs in all seven of their prior encounters over Soliman on the PSA World Tour. However, both players exhibited exceptional form leading up to the decisive clash at the Devonshire Mall, with neither having conceded a single game in the tournament until then.

The 35-year-old Momen orchestrated a commanding start, showcasing his finesse and agility on the court, which translated into a two-game lead. However, Soliman demonstrated his mettle in the rapid-fire third game, rallying with determination to secure a foothold. His tenacity propelled the 2nd seeded Soliman to also clinch the fourth game, thereby altering the momentum in his favour.

Despite the pendulum swinging towards Soliman, Momen harnessed his extensive experience to his advantage, keeping his composure during the decisive phase of the match. His composure eventually paid dividends as he emerged triumphant in the climactic game, showcasing his resilience and skill.

This victory marked Tarek Momen's ninth PSA World Tour title, a significant achievement, and notably his first since his 2020 triumph.

The contest wasn't just a testament to Momen's on-court prowess, but also to his strategic acumen and adeptness in navigating high-pressure situations. As the curtains fell on the Windsor Cup, Momen's performance undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the squash world, reasserting his position as a formidable force on the international professional circuit.

Claiming the PSA Windsor Squash Cup will ensure that Tarek Momen seizes the frontrunner position in the chase for a coveted spot at the PSA World Tour Finals.

Scheduled for June 2024, the PSA World Tour Finals promises an exhilarating showdown, encompassing both men's and women's tournaments, each featuring a select group of eight accomplished players. This elite gathering unites PSA Platinum World Tour title winners and reigning PSA World Champions, with remaining slots awarded to top-ranking contenders on the CIB Road to Egypt Standings. Throughout the season, PSA World Tour events offer crucial points towards this pursuit.

Notably, Windsor Cup semi-finalists Mohamed ElSherbini and Yahya Elnawasany jointly claim the esteemed third position, while the quarter-finalists from the same event gracefully complete the formidable top eight.

Significant fluctuations in the rankings are anticipated following the Paris Squash tournament which heralds the inauguration of the PSA World Tour Platinum events for the 2023-24 season, promising a riveting journey of competition and camaraderie in the world of squash.

2023 Windsor Squash Cup, Devonshire Mall, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Men's Final:
[1] Tarek Momen (EGY) bt [2] Youssef Soliman (EGY) 11-8, 11-5, 3-11, 8-11, 11-7 (75m)

Top two seeds Tarek Momen and Youssef Soliman secured resounding semi-final victories at the 2023 PSA Windsor Squash Cup in Ontario, Canada.

The semi-finals featured an all-Egyptian quartet, with former World Champion Tarek Momen pitted against the remarkable talent of last season's big improver, Mohamed ElSherbini, for a coveted spot in the final. From the outset, a noticeable shift in ElSherbini's usual graceful movement was apparent. His typically smooth agility seemed absent, providing Momen with an advantage to effortlessly accumulate points. Regrettably, at the culmination of the second game, ElSherbini was forced to withdraw due to injury, paving the way for Momen to secure his berth in the final.

Tarek Momen's opponent in the final will be World No.12 Youssef Soliman, who displayed his mettle by triumphing over his emerging compatriot, Yahya Elnawasany, in straight games.

In the initial game, the young contender exhibited competitiveness as well as notching remarkable winners. However, Soliman's seasoned experience shone through during critical junctures, enabling him to claim the first game 11-9. From there Soliman catapulted into a higher gear to close-out the match 11-9 11-4 11-3 in 30 minutes.

2023 Windsor Squash Cup, Devonshire Mall, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Men's Semi-Finals:
[1] Tarek Momen (EGY) bt [3] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) 11-4, 11-2 ret. (17m)
[2] Youssef Soliman (EGY) bt [9/16] Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) 11-9, 11-4, 11-3 (30m)

Yahya Elnawasany will join the esteemed company of top-seeded players Tarek Momen, Youssef Soliman and Mohamed ElSherbini in the semi-finals of the PSA Windsor Squash Cup being staged in Ontario, Canada.

Elnawasany displayed unwavering confidence to beat Gregoiore Marche of France and register another remarkable upset. Although the two had never crossed paths on the PSA World Tour, Elnawasany carried the momentum of his 2nd round upset over Abdulla Al Tamimi into the quarter-final, executing exceptional squash to clinch the opening two games 11-8 and placing himself on the brink of the semi-finals.

However, Marche exhibited his experience, mounting a counterattack that restricted Elnawasany's opportunities. This maneuver coerced Elnawasany into attempting less viable shots. The third game reached a tension-filled tiebreak, with Marche saving three game balls before staving off a match point at 13-12. Ultimately, the Frenchman capitalised on the next three points, triumphing 15-13 and resuscitating the competition. Seizing an 8-3 advantage in the fourth game, Marche propelled the match to a climactic fifth and final game. Yet, Elnawasany rebounded resolutely, amassing a commanding 7-3 lead and maintaining his dominance en route to another upset.

Elnawasany is now scheduled to face No.2 seed Youssef Soliman in the semi-finals. Youssef Soliman's prowess proved formidable as he dispatched surprise quarter-finalist Andrew Douglas in a brisk 32 minutes. After an initial 11-6 surge, Soliman stifled Douglas, allowing him a mere five additional points throughout the contest, surging his way into the final four.

Top-seeded Tarek Momen will lock horns with No.3 seed Mohamed ElSherbini in the semi-fianls. Momen exhibited his prowess by besting compatriot Omar Mosaad in the quarter-finals. His firm command materialised in a 2-0 lead via consecutive 11-5 victories in the opening games. Momen secured his place in the semi-finals with an 11-8 triumph in the third game.

Mohamed ElSherbini demonstrated impressive finesse in his victory over Scotland's Greg Lobban. His meticulous and methodical approach translated to an adept manipulation of the court, generating winners from all corners. As he vaulted to a 2-0 lead, the Egyptian showcased his prowess in securing a four-game victory, earning a coveted spot in the semifinals.

2023 Windsor Squash Cup, Devonshire Mall, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Men's Quarter-Finals:
[1] Tarek Momen (EGY) bt [6] Omar Mosaad (EGY) 11-5, 11-5, 11-8 (30m)
[3] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) bt [8] Greg Lobban (SCO) 11-7, 11-8, 8-11, 11-8 (63m)
Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) bt [4] Grégoire Marche (FRA) 11-8, 11-8, 13-15, 8-11, 11-4 (78m)
[2] Youssef Soliman (EGY) bt Andrew Douglas (USA) 11-6, 11-2, 11-3 (32m)

In a riveting turn of events during the second day of the inaugural PSA World Tour event of the new 2023/24 squash season at the Windsor Cup, two remarkable upsets unfolded. Andrew Douglas of the United States showcased his prowess by triumphing over Mexico's Leonel Cardenas in a four-game duel, while Yahya Elnawasany seized victory by defeating the returning Abdulla Al Tamimi in a 3-1 showdown.

Qatar's Al Tamimi, making a valiant comeback after surgery, found himself in a testing encounter against Yahya Elnawasany. Despite grappling with his post-surgery movement, Al Tamimi displayed resilience. However, Elnawasany, the tenacious Egyptian, capitalised on this opportunity, deploying an aggressive and relentless approach that proved overwhelming. This audacious play secured Yahya Elnawasany a ticket to face Gregoire Marche after the Frenchman showcased his mettle by dispatching Cesar Salazar in four games.

Meanwhile, Andrew Douglas delivered a masterful performance, upending expectations in a gripping face-off with Mexico's No.5 seed, Leonel Cardenas. Despite a significant 31-place disparity in the current PSA World Rankings, Douglas unveiled a precise and aggressive style that exploited openings and capitalised on Cardenas' vulnerabilities. The American sensation now advances to his inaugural PSA World Tour quarter-final, locking horns with the formidable No.2 seed, Youssef Soliman. Soliman's straight-game victory over wildcard Salah Eltorgman set the stage for an intense quarter-final collision.

Omar Mosaad, known as the 'Hammer of Thor', navigated a tense encounter against Juan Camilo Vargas, demonstrating his seasoned prowess. While Mosaad initially dominated with a commanding 2-0 lead, Vargas orchestrated a remarkable comeback, clinching the subsequent two games. The decider witnessed Vargas maintaining his momentum, clinching three match balls. However, Mosaad's experience shone through as he orchestrated an astonishing turnaround, securing compelling 71-minute victory.

Further asserting their dominance, Greg Lobban and Mohamed ElSherbini secured victories over Balázs Farkas and Henry Leung, respectively, both prevailing in four-game clashes. The top-seeded contender, Tarek Momen, secured his berth in the quarter-finals by dispatching Todd Harrity in straight games.

As the PSA Windsor Squash Cup unfolds, unexpected triumphs and electrifying clashes define the essence of squash excellence on this prestigious stage.

2023 Windsor Squash Cup, Devonshire Mall, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Men's 2nd Round:
[1] Tarek Momen (EGY) bt [9/16] Todd Harrity (USA) 11-7, 11-6, 11-6 (32m)
[6] Omar Mosaad (EGY) bt Juan Camilo Vargas (COL) 11-8, 11-6, 9-11, 9-11, 12-10 (71m)
[8] Greg Lobban (SCO) bt [9/16] Balázs Farkas (HUN) 5-11, 11-6, 11-5, 11-4 (44m)
[3] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) bt [9/16] Henry Leung (HKG) 11-7, 7-11, 11-5, 12-10 (49m)
[4] Grégoire Marche (FRA) bt [9/16] Cesar Salazar (MEX) 11-7, 11-4, 10-12, 11-6 (50m)
[9/16] Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) bt [7] Abdulla Al-Tamimi (QAT) 7-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-6 (47m)
Andrew Douglas (USA) bt [5] Leonel Cardenas (MEX) 11-6, 11-7, 7-11, 11-9 (58m)
[2] Youssef Soliman (EGY) bt [WC] Salah Eltorgman (CAN) 11-8, 11-4, 11-1 (28m)

The anticipation of a fresh PSA World Tour season came to life as the PSA Windsor Squash Cup event kicked off in Canada. Enthusiastic home spectators were treated to a triumphant display by wildcard entrant Salah Eltorgman, who orchestrated a stunning upset by besting Portugal's World No.56, Rui Soares, securing his maiden PSA World Tour victory and earning a berth in the second round.

Eltorgman, currently ranked No.190 in the PSA World Rankings, defied his numerical standing with a fearless assault against Soares right from the outset. Carving out a commanding 7-2 lead in the first game, the Canadian adeptly dismantled Soares' game plan, capitalising on the higher seed's potential initial rustiness, considering this was his inaugural match of the season. Despite Soares mounting a spirited comeback, it was the wildcard who clinched a tense tie-break 13-11.

Leveraging the momentum garnered from his late surge in the opening game, the Portuguese contender regained his rhythm in the subsequent battles. Soares clinched both the second and third games with closely contested 11-9 scores, vaulting ahead in the match and silencing the fervent home crowd. Yet, Eltorgman, fueled by determination, recalibrated his attacking prowess with impressive finesse, resurging to level the match at two games apiece by capturing the fourth game 11-6. The decisive fifth game saw the Canadian initiate with a strong 4-1 lead, holding on tenaciously throughout and securing his first match point at 10-9. With nerves of steel, Eltorgman seized the moment, converting his opportunity to clinch a monumental victory, thus earning a second-round clash against the No.2 seed, Youssef Soliman.

The 1st round continued to offer surprises as Colombia's Juan Camilo Vargas and USA's Andrew Douglas executed impressive victories, propelling them into the next phase. Juan Camilo Vargas masterfully dispatched Scotland's Rory Stewart, while Douglas showcased his prowess by overwhelming Argentina's Leandro Romiglio, both triumphing in straight games. Vargas now sets his sights on a showdown with the formidable 'Hammer of Thor,' Omar Mosaad, while Douglas braces for a formidable clash against Mexico's Leonel Cardenas.

Hungary's Balázs Farkas staved off an upset by narrowly overcoming England's last-minute entrant, Simon Herbert, in a gripping five-game encounter. Herbert showcased his mettle, securing a 2-1 advantage after a hard-fought third game victory at 11-9. However, Farkas, renowned for his composed court demeanor, maintained his composure and seized control, comfortably securing the following two games 11-7 and 11-5 to progress to the second round. Farkas is now poised to face Scotland's No.8 seed, Greg Lobban, in what promises to be a captivating battle.

Further igniting the event, swift victories were notched by USA's Todd Harrity, Egypt's Yahya Elnawasany, Mexico's Cesar Salazar, and Hong Kong's Henry Leung, each requiring less than 40 minutes to secure their coveted berths in the second round of the season-opening World Tour event.

The Windsor Cup has unfurled a tapestry of gripping encounters, setting the stage for a season filled with exhilarating squash showdowns that showcase raw talent and determination on this prestigious global platform.

2023 Windsor Squash Cup, Devonshire Mall, Windsor, Ontario, CanadaMen's
1st Round:
[1] Tarek Momen (EGY) bye
[9/16] Todd Harrity (USA) bt Ryunosuke Tsukue (JPN) 11-3, 11-5, 6-11, 11-4 (32m)
Juan Camilo Vargas (COL) bt [9/16] Rory Stewart (SCO) 11-4, 13-11, 11-7 (43m)
[6] Omar Mosaad (EGY) bye
[8] Greg Lobban (SCO) bye
[9/16] Balázs Farkas (HUN) bt Simon Herbert (ENG) 8-11, 11-4, 9-11, 11-7, 11-5 (49m)
[9/16] Henry Leung (HKG) bt [WC] Amin Khan (CAN) 12-10, 11-4, 11-8 (30m)
[3] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) bye
[4] Grégoire Marche (FRA) bye
[9/16] Cesar Salazar (MEX) bt Bernat Jaume (ESP) 13-11, 11-8, 11-5 (45m)
[9/16] Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) bt Martin Svec (CZE) 11-5, 11-13, 11-3, 11-1 (39m)
[7] Abdulla Al-Tamimi (QAT) bye
[5] Leonel Cardenas (MEX) bye
Andrew Douglas (USA) bt [9/16] Leandro Romiglio (ARG) 11-9, 11-1, 11-5 (27m)
[WC] Salah Eltorgman (CAN) bt [9/16] Rui Soares (POR) 13-11, 9-11, 9-11, 11-6, 11-9 (73m)
[2] Youssef Soliman (EGY) bye

The PSA Windsor Cup starts today at Windsor's Devonshire Mall in Ontario, Canada, and kicks starts the 2023/24 PSA World Tour season.

A prestigious PSA World Tour Bronze event, the Windsor Squash Cup will comprise a formidable 24 men draw. This early showdown promises a fierce tussle for coveted PSA World Tour points, crucial for enhancing their standings in this season-opening spectacle.

Former World Champion Tarek Momen from Egypt, spearheads the competition, fervently vying to secure his first triumph since February 2020. Notably, this victory unfurled on Canadian soil at the Toronto Cup, where he defeated Paul Coll. In step with Tarek Momen's pursuit, compatriot Youssef Soliman, the No.2 seed, is equally resolute in emulating his previous season's triumph at the CIB ZED Open.

Unveiling a compelling opener, Japan's rising star, Ryonuske Tsukue, crosses rackets with the seasoned US contender, Todd Harrity. Ryonuske Tsukue can be relied upon to showcase his mettle, having culminated the past season with several a remarkable displays. Todd Harrity, a seasoned campaigner with 82 PSA World Tour events under his belt, faces a formidable challenge against the Japanese No.1

Another intense duel is expected between Scotland's Rory Stewart and Colombia's dynamic force, Juan Camilo Vargas. Rory Stewart boasts a slight edge, ranked 11 places above Vargas in the latest PSA World Rankings. Nonetheless, it was Vargas who orchestrated a dramatic upset, overturning the odds in the 2022 Bermuda Squash Open, orchestrating an enthralling comeback from a 2-1 deficit to seize victory in a marathon 75-minute spectacle.

While the top-seeded luminaries commandeer the spotlight, the remaining members of the elite octet brace for entry in the ensuing skirmishes, scheduled for the second day of battle. A constellation of stars, including the indomitable Greg Lobban, the formidable Abdulla Al Tamimi, and the tenacious Leonel Cardenas, braces for a formidable challenge from their relentless adversaries.

Eager anticipation permeates the air, as the PSA Windsor Squash Cup commences its exhilarating journey, promising a tapestry of skill, resilience, and unbridled competition.

2023 PSA Windsor Cup, Devonshire Mall, Windsor, Canada
Men's Draw:
[1] Tarek Momen (EGY) bye
[9/16] Todd Harrity (USA) v Ryunosuke Tsukue (JPN)
[9/16] Rory Stewart (SCO) v Juan Camilo Vargas (COL)
[6] Omar Mosaad (EGY) bye
[8] Greg Lobban (SCO) bye
[9/16] Balázs Farkas (HUN) v Simon Herbert (ENG)
[9/16] Henry Leung (HKG) v [WC] Amin Khan (CAN)
[3] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) bye
[4] Grégoire Marche (FRA) bye
[9/16] Cesar Salazar (MEX) v Bernat Jaume (ESP)
[9/16] Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) v Martin Svec (CZE)
[7] Abdulla Al-Tamimi (QAT) bye
[5] Leonel Cardenas (MEX) bye
[9/16] Leandro Romiglio (ARG) v Andrew Douglas (USA)
[9/16] Rui Soares (POR) v [WC] Salah Eltorgman (CAN)
[2] Youssef Soliman (EGY)

The squash world is abuzz with excitement as the upcoming 2023-24 PSA World Tour season kicks off with the highly anticipated PSA Windsor Cup which is set to take place between 15th and 19th August in Canada at the Devonshire Mall which will host an all-glass showcourt.

Former World Champion Tarek Momen will spearhead the field, topping the draw as the No.1 seed. Momen, who claimed the PSA World Championship title in 2019, seeks to break his title drought since winning the Troilus Gold Canada Cup in Toronto in 2020. Despite reaching two finals last season, Momen aims to start the new season with a triumphant return to form.

Hot on Momen's heels will be compatriot Youssef Soliman who will be the No.2 seed. Soliman commenced the previous season on a high note, securing victory at the ZED Open in Cairo without dropping a single game. With a first-round bye, he awaits the winner between England's Nathan Lake and Canada's Salah Eltorgman, one of the event's wildcards.

Claiming the No.3 and No.4 seeding positions are Mohamed ElSherbini and Gregoire Marche, respectively. ElSherbini impressed with a stellar campaign last season, reaching two finals and achieving a career-high World Ranking No.18. Marche, the World No.23, is eager for redemption after a somewhat challenging season, where he reached only two quarter-finals and experienced an 11-place drop in the PSA World Rankings.

Fans can also look forward to the return of the dynamic Qatari player, Abdulla Mohd Al Tamimi. Following a five-month absence due to an injury sustained at the PSA Black Ball Open in March, Al Tamimi is set to make a thrilling comeback. Known for his flamboyant playing style, Al Tamimi will face either Egypt's Yahya Elnawasany or Argentine Leandro Romiglio in the opening round.

Adding an exciting twist to the event is 20-year-old Canadian sensation, Amin Khan, who secures one of the wildcard spots. This rising star will compete in his first event above the WSF & PSA Satellite Tour level, eager to make his mark on the global stage. Khan's opening match will be against Hong Kong's Henry Leung, and a potential showdown with No.3 seed Mohamed ElSherbini awaits him in the second round.

In conjunction with the Windsor Cup, the Windsor City Open will also be held, featuring a PSA Women's Challenger Tour 9 event and PSA Men's Challenger Tour 6 event. The top seeds for these thrilling events will be World No.55 Marina Stefanoni and Canadian World No.139 Connor Turk.

Undoubtedly, the Windsor Cup promises to be an unforgettable squash extravaganza, attracting legendary figures from the sport. Among them, the 10-time British Open Champion Jahangir Khan will grace the tournament and have the honor of presenting the trophies on the much-anticipated finals day.

2023 PSA Windsor Cup, Devonshire Mall, Windsor, Canada
Men's Draw:
[1] Tarek Momen (EGY) [bye]
Ryunosuke Tsukue (JPN) v [9/16] Todd Harrity (USA)
[9/16] Rory Stewart (SCO) v Juan Camilo Vargas (COL)
[6] Omar Mosaad (EGY) [bye]
[8] Greg Lobban (SCO) [bye]
Rui Soares (POR) v [9/16] Balazs Farkas (HUN)
[9/16] Henry Leung (HKG) v [WC] Amin Khan (CAN)
[3] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) [bye]
[4] Gregoire Marche (FRA) [bye]
Bernat Jaume (ESP) v [9/16] Cesar Salazar (MEX)
[9/16] Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) v Leandro Romiglio (ARG)
[7] Abdulla Mohd Al Tamimi (QAT) [bye]
[5] Leonel Cardenas (MEX) [bye]
Andrew Douglas (USA) v [9/16] Karim El Hammamy (EGY)
[9/16] Nathan Lake (ENG) v [WC] Salah Eltorgman (CAN)
[2] Youssef Soliman (EGY) [bye]