In a momentous ceremony held on the eve of the Hong Kong Squash Open, squash legends Nicol David and Jansher Khan were inducted into the Professional Squash Association (PSA) Hall of Fame at the Hong Kong Football Club. The event, broadcast live on SQUASHTV, celebrated the incredible contributions of both athletes to the sport of squash, as they joined the esteemed ranks of the Hall of Fame.
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David and Khan are now the fourth and fifth members of the PSA Hall of Fame, joining inaugural inductees Susan Devoy and Jahangir Khan. Their induction marks a significant milestone in the history of squash, recognizing their unmatched achievements and lasting impact on the game.
Nicol David, widely regarded as one of the greatest female players in squash history, left an indelible mark on the sport with her extraordinary accomplishments. She clinched an unprecedented eight World Championship titles and dominated the World No.1 ranking for 108 months. David also triumphed in five British Open titles and two Commonwealth Games gold medals. Since retiring, she has focused on community-driven initiatives through the Nicol David Organisation, which supports squash development and education programs. In 2021, she was honored with membership in the Laureus World Sports Academy.
Reflecting on her induction, David expressed her gratitude, saying, “It’s such an honor to be recognized in this way. I feel amazing and truly thankful to the PSA.”
Jansher Khan, a key figure in Pakistan’s squash dominance during the 1980s and 1990s, boasts eight World Championships and six British Open titles. His reign at World No.1 spanned a record 97 months, and he retired with 99 professional titles, the most by any male player in the sport. Khan also had a storied career at the Hong Kong Open, securing eight titles in the city that now hosts his induction.
“It’s a true joy to be celebrated here in Hong Kong, a place where I achieved so much,” Khan shared, reflecting on the significance of the event.
PSA Chief Executive Alex Gough praised both players for their contributions to squash, stating, “Nicol and Jansher’s names will forever be linked with squash. Their records and influence on the game are unmatched.”
The induction ceremony also saw tributes from the current stars of squash, with World No.1 Nour El Sherbini and Ali Farag recognizing the monumental impact of David and Khan on the sport. Farag referred to Khan as “the greatest squash player of all time,” while El Sherbini highlighted David’s legacy as a role model for players worldwide.
As the PSA celebrates its 50th anniversary, this induction underscores the ongoing significance of honoring the pioneers of the sport. The PSA Hall of Fame now stands as a tribute to those who have shaped squash into the global phenomenon it is today.
