Karachi, Pakistan – In a stunning quarter-final match at the inaugural U23 World Squash Championships, Malaysia’s Xin Ying Yee upset No. 2 seed Malak Khafagy with a thrilling 3-2 victory. The competition, featuring top squash talents aged 22 and under, is currently being held at the DHA Creek Club.
The match kicked off with Yee, the 5/8 seed and World No. 82, facing off against Khafagy, ranked 31st in the world. Despite the ranking disparity, Yee came out swinging, showcasing her incredible skill. Khafagy managed to take the first game 11-9, but Yee quickly retaliated, winning the second game 11-8.
In the tense third game, Yee capitalized on Khafagy’s mistakes, pushing ahead to win 11-9. However, Khafagy fought back, claiming the fourth game 11-7, setting the stage for a thrilling fifth and final showdown. The decider saw both players grapple fiercely for control, and Yee seemed poised for victory when she gained a 10-6 lead, earning four match balls. But Khafagy demonstrated resilience, saving three match balls and closing the gap.
In a dramatic end, a collision occurred when Khafagy played a loose shot; Yee, racing to retrieve it, collided with her opponent. The match concluded with a stroke awarded to Yee, resulting in her triumphant win and a spot in the semi-finals. “She’s a very good player, and this win is definitely such a boost of confidence for me!” Yee reflected post-match.
Looking ahead, Yee will face Hong Kong’s Sin Yuk Chan in the semi-finals. Chan, the 3/4 seed, cruised past Japan’s Akari Midorikawa in her quarter-final. The other women’s semi-final pits top seed Fayrouz Aboelkheir against Malaysian 3/4 seed Aira Azman.
In the men’s draw, Noor Zaman from Pakistan continued his strong run, defeating France’s Melvil Scianimanico 3-0, displaying remarkable speed and precision. Zaman’s journey through the tournament has been impressive; he began with a close 3-1 win against Hussain Alzaatari and improved significantly in his next match, overcoming Jakub Pytlowany.
Today, Zaman overwhelmed Scianimanico, showcasing his skill by scoring 11-7, 11-9, and 11-8. He will now face 3/4 seed Ameeshenraj Chandaran from Malaysia, who overcame compatriot Hamza Khan in a closely contested match.
The remaining men’s semi-final will showcase top-seed Ibrahim Elkabbani of Egypt against 3/4 seed Kareem El Torkey, after both had secured victories in their quarter-finals. Elkabbani easily defeated 2022 World Junior Champion Rowan Damming, and El Torkey eliminated Swiss player David Bernet.
Fans can catch the semi-finals of the U23 World Squash Championships live on April 9, beginning at 14:45 (GMT+5) from the DHA Creek Club. The tournament continues to draw significant attention as it highlights emerging squash talents worldwide.
