Nicol is most successful Malaysian athlete by winning seven Asiad golds

MALAYSIA’S squash queen Nicol David claimed her fifth singles gold medal at her last Asian Games in style.

And there is a chance for the 35-year-old squash queen to add one more – in the team event starting today.

She now holds the distinction of being the most successful Malaysian athlete with seven Asian Games gold medals and she’s on track to bid adieu to the Asiad with eight golds if she manages to defend the women’s team event gold medal.

Nicol, who celebrated her 35th birthday yesterday was made to sweat by compatriot S. Sivasangari before triumphing 11-13, 11-9, 5-11, 11-6, 11-8 in the final at the Gelora Bung Karno Squash Stadium.

“It’s always nice to win the gold medal and a good birthday present, and this win means a lot as this is my last Asiad,” said Nicol, who will turn 39 in the next edition.

The Penangite said Sivasangari has proven herself with her valiant run to the final.

Too hot to handle: Nicol David (right) returning a shot to S. Sivasangari in the women’s singles final yesterday.

“I think she has all the experience now after reaching the Asian Games final.

“She will be a tough contender, and one to watch out for in the future for sure,” said Nicol.

“It was a close fight, I’m pleased with my performance and proud of what Sivasangari put together ... she had trained very hard and showed that she’s among the best.

“She had momentum from her previous wins. I was ready as I expected a battle and sure enough I won in five sets, and I’m happy with the win.”

Meanwhile, Sivasangari said that her silver-medal feat would inspire her to be more successful in the future.

The 19-year-old said she was happy with her performance in the final and would look to land her second medal through the team event next.

The teenager, ranked No. 40 in the world earned her place on the podium after beating Annie Au of Hong Kong in the quarter-finals and Joshna Chinappa of India in the semi-finals.

“I’m quite happy with my performance in the individual event getting two big wins, and then finally my dream to play Nicol in a big final came true!”

For the record, the athlete with the second highest number of gold medals won at the Asiad is Shalin Zulkifli with four.