Squash: The Spicy Sport Making a Comeback
Australia has a rich history in squash, boasting numerous world champions and leading the way in World Team championships and Commonwealth Games titles. However, over the years, the popularity of squash has dwindled in Australia, with a significant drop in the number of participants and available facilities. From a peak of about a million players in the 80s to just over 100,000 in 2013, the decline has been evident.
Former five-time world champion Sarah Fitz-Gerald highlighted the issue, stating that the number of squash facilities around the country had decreased from about 1,300 courts 20 years prior to less than 600. Despite the decline, there is hope on the horizon for squash in Australia. With the inclusion of squash in the 2028 Olympic Games, there is a renewed sense of excitement and opportunity for the sport to regain its former glory.
Reviving a Legacy
At the recent Australian Open Squash tournament in Brisbane, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and enthusiasm. World number four and top seed in Brisbane, American Olivia Weaver, expressed her joy and pride at the inclusion of squash in the Olympics. The prospect of playing at a home Olympics is a dream come true for many players and fans alike, signaling a new era for the sport.
Rob Donaghue, chief executive of Squash Australia, acknowledged the “golden generation” that propelled the sport to great heights in the past. While the legacy of champions like Michelle Martin and David Palmer still resonates, there is a collective effort to reignite the passion for squash among Australians. The upcoming Olympic Games present a unique opportunity to showcase the sport on a global stage and inspire a new generation of players.
Game On: The Rise of Squash
One of the key factors driving the resurgence of squash is its ability to captivate audiences with innovative and exciting events. The use of glass courts has allowed squash to pop up in iconic locations around the world, from the pyramids in Cairo to Grand Central Station in New York. The visual spectacle of the sport, combined with its intense gameplay, has drawn fans from all corners of the globe.
Olivia Weaver, reflecting on the sport’s unique appeal, emphasized the versatility of squash courts and their ability to transform any space into a dynamic sporting arena. The Australian Open, held at Brisbane’s South Bank Piazza, exemplifies the sport’s adaptability and potential to engage audiences in new and exciting ways. With a rich history dating back to 1928, the tournament has attracted top players and showcased the best of squash to a global audience.
As squash continues to evolve and innovate, the sport’s integration into iconic venues and landmarks has garnered attention and admiration. The combination of athleticism, strategy, and spectacle makes squash a compelling viewing experience for fans worldwide. With the upcoming Olympics and a renewed focus on visibility and accessibility, squash is poised to make a triumphant comeback in Australia.
The future of squash in Australia hinges on its ability to engage and inspire players of all ages. By showcasing the sport in its best possible light and leveraging its unique attributes, Squash Australia aims to reignite interest and participation in squash across the country. As the Australian Open draws to a close, the legacy of champions past and the promise of future glory merge in a celebration of squash’s enduring appeal and unwavering spirit.