Squash: Egypt's El-Sherbini equals record, Asal claims maiden PSA World Championship title - World
El-Sherbini, 29, overcame Hania El-Hammamy 11-5, 11-9, 11-4, and 11-7 in a 61-minute contest to draw level with Malaysian icon Nicol David's all-time record of eight world titles.
It was her 10th consecutive appearance in the final and her fourth championship triumph in the Windy City.
'I never imagined I'd get to eight,' said El-Sherbini. 'I've had a tough season, but I really wanted this one. It means everything.'
On the men's side, Asal produced a clinical 11-7, 11-8, and 11-3 win over four-time champion Ali Farag, completing a flawless tournament without dropping a single game.
The 23-year-old holds the PSA World title and the British Open crown, retaining the World No.1 spot.
'To win this title, and stay No.1, is incredible,' Asal said.
'There were a lot of mental challenges this week. I'm grateful to my team, especially to James Willstrop, who helped me stay focused,' he said.
Both finals showcased Egypt's continued supremacy in the sport. Egyptian players account for all finalists at squash's most prestigious tournament, which carries a total prize fund of $1.31 million.
Asal, who had lost to Peru's Diego Elias in last year's final, exacted redemption against Farag — his sixth final meeting with the experienced World No.2 — extending his head-to-head advantage to 5-1.
Meanwhile, El-Hammamy was appearing in her first World Championship final.
'She's young and talented, but today I had the edge of experience,' El-Sherbini said.
The PSA World Tour will now shift to Egypt for the Palm Hills Open from 22 to 27 May.
(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
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