Egypt’s women’s squash team has triumphed once again, defending their title at the WSF Women’s World Squash Team Championship with a convincing 2-0 victory over the USA at the Hong Kong Football Club. This marks Egypt’s fourth consecutive title, after previously securing the championship in 2016, 2018, and 2022.
In today’s final, Egypt faced a formidable USA team that had qualified for two consecutive finals, an impressive achievement given they had never before made it past the quarter-finals. The Egyptians, led by World No.7 Rowan Elaraby and World No.2 Nour El Sherbini, proved too strong for the Americans as they clinched yet another title.
Elaraby’s Gritty Win Sets the Tone
The opening match saw Rowan Elaraby face Marina Stefanoni, with both players meeting for the first time since their encounter at the Richmond Open six years ago, where Elaraby had prevailed in straight games. Today’s match was no less intense, as Stefanoni opened with a strong 11-6 win in the first game, taking an early lead.
However, Elaraby, who has been in excellent form this year, bounced back to win the second game 12-10 after saving a game ball at 9-10. The third game saw Stefanoni rally to a deserved 11-6 win, pushing Elaraby to the brink and sending nerves through the Egyptian bench.
But the 24-year-old Egyptian wasn’t to be undone. Despite a strong comeback from Stefanoni, Elaraby held her composure and edged ahead, sealing the match 11-9 in the fourth game after a series of tense rallies.
“It’s a very emotional one for me. Representing Egypt at such a big event, with my teammates by my side, is a huge privilege,” said Elaraby. “I was really nervous about this one, but I’m so happy to get the win for the team.”
El Sherbini’s Dominance Clinches the Title
Next up was the highly anticipated showdown between Nour El Sherbini and Olivia Weaver, a rematch of their 2022 World Championship final. El Sherbini had won that encounter with ease, but Weaver had since enjoyed a rise in form, even reaching World No.4 before the final. However, Weaver’s fitness was a concern going into the match, as she had played only one match prior to the final after suffering a back injury.
Despite the doubts surrounding Weaver’s fitness, El Sherbini quickly took control of the match. The first game was competitive, but El Sherbini won 11-7. Weaver managed to level the score in the second, taking the game 11-6, but it was clear that El Sherbini had the upper hand.
In the third game, El Sherbini’s court craft began to shine through. She pulled away with a series of intelligent, well-placed shots, eventually securing a 11-7 victory to go 2-1 up. The final game was a masterclass in movement and precision from the World No.2. El Sherbini sealed the win with another 11-7 scoreline, securing Egypt’s second point and the championship.
“It’s always emotional playing for your country, and with these amazing players around me, I’m so happy to bring the title back to Egypt,” said El Sherbini after the win. “Hong Kong has been a lucky charm for us, and we’re really happy to win this title here.”
Final Result: WSF World Squash Team Championship Women’s Final
- [1] Egypt 2-0 [2] USA
- Rowan Elaraby (EGY) defeated Marina Stefanoni (USA) 3-1: 11-6, 12-10, 6-11, 11-9 (42 minutes)
- Nour El Sherbini (EGY) defeated Olivia Weaver (USA) 3-1: 11-7, 6-11, 11-7, 11-7 (38 minutes)
A New Era for Women’s Squash
With this victory, Egypt reaffirms its dominance in women’s squash, extending its reign as world champions. The victory also marks a significant achievement for the Egyptian women’s squash team, who have firmly established themselves as the leading force in global squash.
This win is particularly meaningful as it underscores the incredible depth of talent Egypt has developed in recent years, with top-tier players like El Sherbini, Elaraby, and Hania El Hammamy consistently delivering under pressure. Egypt’s dominance is a testament to the country’s squash programs, which have produced some of the most successful players in the sport’s history.
As for the USA, although they fell short in this final, they have made significant strides in women’s squash, and their journey to the final represents the growing strength of American squash. Their team, led by the experienced Amanda Sobhy, will surely be a formidable force in the years to come.
Next up for Egypt’s squash stars will be the Men’s Final, where they will face England in another highly anticipated showdown. But for now, it’s a time to celebrate Egypt’s continued dominance in the women’s game.
