KARACHI: Egypt’s Karim El Hammamy and Rowan Elaraby claimed the men’s and women’s titles, respectively, as the five-day Venus ABC Open International Squash Championship, a copper-level event, concluded here at the Asif Nawaz Squash Complex of the Defence Authority Creek Club on Sunday.
In the men’s final, El Hammamy defeated top seed Curtis Malik of England 11-6, 12-10, 11-3 in 48 minutes.
El Hammamy said that the tournament had been tough, with his seeding bringing its own pressure.
“As the second seed it was expected of me to reach the final but still it wasn’t easy,” he said after the triumph. “I got my ankle twisted during the quarter-final and I wasn’t sure if I could continue that match but still I powered through.”
He added: “Curtis is higher ranked [than me] and his game was always on point and it was such a good win today.” El Hammamy also spoke warmly of his time in Pakistan.
“The people here are always nice, they are always very helpful and I am planning to be here again in December [for Sindh Open],” he said.
In the women’s final, fourth seed Elaraby outclassed compatriot and second seed Amina El Rihany 11-6, 11-8, 11-5 in 33 minutes.
“The final was great, I really enjoyed it and I am really glad with my win here, hopefully I can come back soon,” Elaraby said after the match.
According to the Sindh Squash Association, both the winners received prize money of $5,415 each along with the trophy.
Legend and former world champion Jahangir Khan, Sindh Squash Association president Adnan Asad and a large number of spectators were also present on the occasion.
Published in Dawn, October 26th, 2026
