Manchester high for Nicol despite loss

PETALING JAYA: National squash player Nicol David (pic) took time to reminisce over the good old times in Manchester after her challenge in the tournament ended in the second round.

The 35-year-old legend went down 7-11, 9-11, 11-6, 6-11 to world No. 6 and home favourite Sarah-Jane Perry in 43 minutes on Friday in England.

Nicol gave due praise to Perry.

“Sarah-Jane was really good. She turned it on at the right time and for me, there were lapses of moments when I did not get my shots right, she took advantage of that,” said Nicol.

After the defeat, Nicol walked down memory lane on her many pleasant moments in Manchester, including winning her first British Open title in 2005.

Nicol went on to win it four more times in 2006, 2008, 2012, and 2014 and remains the only Asian to have won the women’s event.

“I have had many moments here in Manchester, my first British Open title and winning the World Championships too (in 2008),” said Nicol.

“I also won the silver medal here with Ong Beng Hee in the mixed doubles event at the Commonwealth Games (in 2006).

“Coming back here has brought back so many good memories.”

Nicol now has one more event before she pulls down the curtain on her glittering career that saw her win a record-breaking eight world titles.

She plays in the prestigious British Open in Hull from May 20-26.

Perry cherished the opportunity to play against the squash legend for the final time.

“I congratulate Nicol for her amazing squash career. She is an amazing ambassador for the game. No one has come close to her,” said Perry.

“I knew this was her last game here before retirement and I wanted that thrill to compete with her for one last time.”

“I’m pleased to play on the same court with her today and proud to win as she started to play some amazing squash in the third game.”