Nicol wins gold in all-Malaysian Asiad squash final

JAKARTA: Malaysian squash queen Datuk Nicol David was made to work before she overcame compatriot S. Sivasangari to take the Asian Games women's squash gold on Sunday (Aug 26).

It was the perfect gift for Nicol who celebrated her 35th birthday today, but she had to work hard before eventually outclassing her young opponent 11-13, 11-9, 5-11, 11-6, 11-8 at the Gelora Bung Karno Squash Stadium.

The Penangite now has five Asian Games singles gold medals.

Nineteed-year-old Sivasangari, who faced her idol in a major final for the first time, was far from overawed and put in a spirited performance with some flashes of brilliance.

However, Nicol's experience showed as she kept her composure to claim the gold.

A jubilant Nicol said that she was pleased with the win.

"It's always nice to win the gold medal and this win means a lot as this is my last Asian Games."

She also said that she was impressed by her young rival.

"She had momentum from her previous wins. I was ready and I expected a battle.

"It was a close-fought match, I'm pleased with my performance and proud of what Sivasangari's put together ... she trained very hard and showed that's she's among the best," she said.