Future stars: Nicol David posing with all the winners.
PETALING JAYA: Eight-time world squash champion Nicol David was all smiles to see the emergence of little Nicols.
The former great was busy over the weekend as she watched the next generation of players strutting their stuff in the second edition of the Nicol David Junior Open at the Astaka Squash Complex.
The 41-year-old was emotional when she was swamped by little ones, even bringing their rackets, water bottles and crocs shoes for autographs after sweating it out.
She hopes to see more young talents become future champions, following in her footsteps.
“From signing T-shirts, slippers, racquets, water bottles, and even phones, I get so much love from the little ones,” said Nicol.
“I’ve to pinch myself when the children come up to me and scream with excitement. My only wish is that they dream big, like I once did, because they are the future of our sport.”
“I will contribute as much as I can for the sport because I’m the product of many people who gave squash funding and support, especially for my growth and success.
Popular icon: Young fans queue up for squash queen Nicol David’s autograph during the Junior Open at the Astaka Squash Complex.
“It’s my turn now to pave the way forward for the next generation.” she added.
The Nicol David Junior Open, which ended on Sunday was organised by the Nicol David Organisation and aimed at promoting the sport at the grassroots level in Malaysia and beyond.
The second edition saw the participation of 347 juniors in three categories – Under-9, Under-11 and Under-13 from 13 states, along with representatives from China and Pakistan.
“We are extremely proud of how the Open has evolved (after the first edition in 2023) and with the talents we’ve seen this year,” said Nicol.
“It’s more than just a tournament. It’s about creating an ecosystem of support, growth, and opportunity for young players. The success of this event reflects that vision.”
The boys winners were Sarawak’s Jarvyn Ling Jin Hyun (Under-9), Wayne Isaac Wilson (Under-13) and Kelantan’s Nik Izz Dameer Norifaizal (Under-11), while the girls’ champions were Iman Zara of Terengganu (Under-9) and Kuala Lumpur’s Keerthi Pradhaa Junivar Bala (Under-11) and Maisarah (Under-13).
