Former squash world champion Datuk Nicol Ann David shares what it takes to follow in her footsteps, how she aims to inspire young Malaysian squash players to win their first Olympic gold and boost the global growth of squash
Squash has been played for over 170 years, but it only recently became an Olympic sport after being included as one of five new sports in the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics (LA28).
Previously, proponents of the sport have applied for its inclusion in the Olympics multiple times, but their attempts were unsuccessful until recently. One of the sport’s biggest proponents is former world champion Datuk Nicol Ann David. The athlete reigned as the world number one for a record-breaking 108 consecutive months from August 2006 to September 2015.
After hearing that squash was confirmed for the LA28 games, David was in disbelief. The moment was bittersweet as she was personally involved in previous bids from 2012 to 2019 to include the sport in the Olympics sports list. Now, squash enthusiasts and players hope the sport’s debut at the 2028 Games will boost its popularity and worldwide recognition.
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“It is now possible for a squash player to become an Olympian, and our Malaysian players have the chance to compete globally. Finally, my dream of seeing a squash player win a gold medal at the Olympics is becoming a reality,” she said.
In 2022, David started her non-profit organisation, the Nicol David Organisation, to empower underprivileged children through sport and education. We ask the squash legend about the sport’s prospects and her tips for aspiring players.
Take us through what it was like campaigning for squash to be included in the Olympics.
Nicol David (ND): When I made the bid in my 20s, I remember how invaluable the experience of campaigning for squash to be in the Olympics to the executive board of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) was. I prepared extensively to present my case and convey its significance to me. This process helped me gain confidence in the merits of our sport. At one point, I genuinely believed that we would succeed. However, after retiring, I began to lose hope.
How do different sports get selected for the games?
ND: Each Olympic selection depends on various criteria, the most significant being the sport’s popularity worldwide. Additionally, the host city of the Olympic Games has a considerable influence on the selection process. For example, when Japan hosts the Olympic Games, they will prioritise sports in which Japanese athletes excel, such as karate and baseball. But in the subsequent games in Paris, those two sports were removed.
Now that squash is in the Olympics, what do you foresee is the path forward?
ND: In the past, squash did not receive as much funding as other sports because it was not an Olympic sport. Now that it has been given that recognition, we can expect more funding and increased support for squash players. This will help to increase participation and support for the sport in every country. I expect more tournaments to be organised as this will attract more spectators and grow interest in the game worldwide.
What role will you play in developing the sport in the upcoming years?
ND: I believe the next five years will be very exciting for squash. I’m looking forward to collaborating wherever I can—whether it’s to support the team or be part of the Olympic delegation. Our Malaysian squash players now have several years to prepare. It’s a great opportunity for them. A talented group of young squash players, such as Sivasangari Subramaniam and Eain Yow, are quickly rising through the ranks. They are still young and have much to learn. They need to gain exposure and experience to reach their full potential. This is the ideal time for them to showcase their abilities.
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