Squash is also gaining popularity among juniors all over the world, which augurs well for the future of the sport. In our infographic, we have highlighted England, the United States, France, Canada, and of course, Australia, to show player to court ratios.
England, France, and Australia have a well-known history of top squash players and still have top players on the tour, including England’s Nick Matthew (WR #4) and Laura Massaro (WR #4), France’s Gregory Gaultier (WR #1) and Camille Serme (WR #2), and Australia’s Ryan Cuskelly (WR #16) and Donna Urquhart (WR #18).
The United States and Canada also boast of top players, including American Amanda Sobhy (WR #11), but have become well-recognised in the squash community for their governing bodies who do an incredible job promoting the sport and creating as large a player-base as a possible.
Although it isn’t yet an Olympic sport, the drive to including it in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and in the 2024 Olympics is gaining momentum with the World Squash Federation (WSF) organising #Vote4Squash and Back the Bid 2020 in order to spread its popularity. Tennis legend, Roger Federer has also supported the move for its inclusion. The proposal is being reviewed by the IOC.
Considered as one of the healthiest sports, squash helps in improving agility, strength and balance and agility. While a round of squash is comparable to a high intensity workout, it is and enjoyable social sport.
It is a sport which can be played by people of all ages and is simple to learn. There are also modified game types for people with different skill levels. For people aspiring to play competitively, there are coaches and squash academies all over the world who can help.
Just about every movement such as leaping, jumping, bending, spinning and running is made by the body in a game. These movements’ condition people to be agile and quickly start, stop, start or change direction.
Constantly watching a moving ball and adjusting the racquet hand to hit it promotes hand-eye coordination. The coordinated eye and hand movement improves finesse when walking.
Squash is also an excellent stress reliever. A game of squash is the perfect outlet to getting rid of anger, frustration or other negative energies at the end of a demanding day at the office.
The friendly environment of squash clubs also provides squash enthusiasts with an opportunity to make new friends.
See our infographic for more facts about squash and to learn about the history of our sport!