Shorbagy clinches Qatar Classic

PETALING JAYA: Mohamed El Shorbagy was well on top of his game to beat world champion Nick Matthew of England for the Qatar Classic title at Doha on Friday.

A year after finishing runner-up to compatriot Ramy Ashour in the Men's World Championship final on the same court, the 22-year-old Shorbagy got it right this time with an 11-5, 5-11, 11-6, 6-11, 11-4 win over world No. 4 Matthew.

It was truly a coming-of-age win for the world No. 6 Egyptian – his first ever Professional Squash Association (PSA) World Series title, and it couldn't have come at a better time.

With a predominantly Arabic crowd in a full house supporting him, Shorbagy always seemed to have the edge against Matthew and eventually had that extra spring in the deciding rubber to clinch the title.

“Last year when I finished runner-up here, I promised the promoter that I would come back next year and win this tournament so I'm glad that I kept my promise,” said Shorbagy.

“To beat Nick today is really an honour because he's just won the world title for the third time at the age of 33 years old.

“If I can do just half of what he has done, I will be happy.”

Matthew meanwhile lauded Shorbagy saying that he “had an excellent game”.

“When he grows up he is going to be a great player,” added theYorkshireman in jest.