Pakistan's Jahangir Khan for Inclusion of Squash in Olympics
Pakistan Times Sports Desk

ISLAMABAD: Former squash star Jahangir Khan, who now heads the world governing body of this sport, has made out a strong case for inclusion of squash in the Olympic Games.

President of World Squash Federation, Jahangir Khan, said in an interview that squash had received very encouraging responses from member countries of the International Olympic Committee.

“Most people seem surprised that squash isn’t already part of the Olympic Games movement, particularly as we fulfil all the criteria, with the sport played in over 150 countries, spread over Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania.

“And our sport is growing: The number of national federations affiliated to the WSF has doubled in the past 15 years to 125 - and new applications continue to arrive. The professional tours are growing in events and prize money. And the number of worldwide players now exceeds 15 million,” Jahangir said.

“But perhaps the most compelling reason to welcome us into the Games community is that squash is all about sheer athleticism. At the top level, squash requires a remarkable combination of power, speed, flexibility, agility and instant reflexes.

“And let’s not forget squash’s trademark - outstanding endurance, both muscular and cardiovascular. Surely the Olympic Games are principally all about superior athletic performance”, said Jahangir who won nearly 700 matches in a marathon unbeaten run spreading over five and half years which itself is a record.

He also won the prestgious British Open for unprecedented 10 times and World Open six times.

“I have enjoyed a magnificent career in squash - but I admit that my biggest disappointment is not having been able to compete for an Olympic gold medal. If I could help achieve this for the next generation of players, it would be my proudest moment,” he said.

Squash is stringly tipped to be included in the competition programme of 2016 Olympics.●