KARACHI, April 8, 2025 - The temperature in Karachi soared to 33°C on the second day of the World Squash Federation Under-23 World Championships 2025, but the intensity inside the squash courts at DHA Creek Club was immeasurable. The competition heated up with players fighting for survival in the championship, as those who lost in the opening round clashed again for pride, while seeded contenders began their campaigns with decisive victories.
Among the women, top-seeded Fayrouz Abouelkheir of Egypt delivered a statement of intent with a commanding straight-sets victory over Spain’s Nora Romero Velazquez (11-4, 11-2, 11-4). The match, lasting just 21 minutes, showcased Abouelkheir’s pinpoint accuracy and ruthless control across the court. She expressed satisfaction with her performance and readiness for the upcoming rounds. Post-match, she also had a brief and cheerful encounter with squash legend Jahangir Khan, who lauded her dominance.
Abouelkheir will next face Toby Tse Yee Lam of Hong Kong, who overcame France’s Clara Lincou in a tight four-game battle (9-11, 11-7, 11-1, 11-7).
The host nation’s players also made a strong impact. Pakistan’s No. 2 seed Noor Zaman eased past Poland’s Jakub Pytlowany (11-5, 11-3, 11-4), while Muhammad Hamza Khan defeated England’s Will Salter (11-6, 11-5, 11-5) in another clinical performance, drawing loud cheers from the home crowd.
In other women's matches, Egypt’s second seed Malak Khafagy swept past Czech Republic’s Tereza Siroka (11-3, 11-2, 11-2), while Zen Yeng Yee of Malaysia dominated Spain’s Asia Riveiro (11-4, 11-3, 11-7). Akari Midorikawa of Japan eliminated Czech player Tamara Holzbauerova (11-6, 11-5, 11-3), continuing her fine run.
From France, Melvil Scianimanico advanced with a 3-0 win over South Africa’s Damien Groenewald (11-6, 11-7, 11-9). Haley Fung (HKG) overwhelmed Canada’s Eman Shaheen (11-2, 11-7, 11-3), and Ammieshan Raj Chandaran (MAS) outclassed Hong Kong’s Matthew Lim (6-11, 11-4, 11-7, 11-3).
There were dramatic scenes in the match between Rowan Damming (NED) and Duncan Lee (MAS), where Damming progressed due to his opponent’s injury retirement with the score at 11-4, 11-6, 5-0. Switzerland’s David Bernet secured a 3-1 victory over Spain’s Hugo Lafuente Gin (9-11, 11-4, 11-3, 11-3).
In a highly anticipated clash, Egypt’s Ibrahim Elkabbani delivered a fiery yet controlled performance to defeat France’s Mathieu Carrouget (11-7, 12-10, 11-6), in a match full of tension, agility, and relentless rallies. Spectators described it as a "battle of fire and water."
Notable attendees including Adnan Asad (Vice President, WSF Asia), legends Qamar Zaman, Jahangir Khan, and Gogi Alauddin were present to motivate and support the players. The international athletes blended well with the local organizers and fans, sharing smiles, handshakes, and photo sessions that highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship and cultural exchange.
Quarter-Final Line-Up – April 8, 2025
Women’s Draw:
Zen Yeng Yee (MAS) vs. Malak Khafagy (EGY)
Chan Sin Yuk (HKG) vs. Akari Midorikawa (JPN)
Haley Fung (HKG) vs. Aira Azman (MAS) – Match at 15:30
Fayrouz Abouelkheir (EGY) vs. Toby Tse Yee Lam (HKG) – Match at 17:30
Men’s Draw:
Melvil Scianimanico (FRA) vs. Noor Zaman (PAK)
David Bernet (SUI) vs. Kareem El Torkey (EGY) – Match at 16:45
Ibrahim Elkabbani (EGY) vs. Rowan Damming (NED) – Match at 17:30
Ammieshan Raj Chandaran (MAS) vs. Muhammad Hamza Khan (PAK)
With the field narrowing and the stakes higher than ever, Tuesday’s quarter-finals promise thrilling encounters and perhaps a glimpse of future squash royalty. Karachi continues to host the world’s top youth talent with flair, passion, and world-class hospitality.
