World Tour Finals: Asal Outclasses Farag

Defending champion Mostafa Asal put in one of his finest performances in his career to date as he outclassed World No.1 Ali Farag in their CIB PSA World Tour Finals last four clash to bring an end to Farag’s 22-match unbeaten run.

Asal had suffered defeat the last three times he had played Farag, including in the final of the El Gouna International earlier this month, which was the fourth tournament in a row that Farag had won.

But tonight at EDNC SODIC, Asal overpowered his opponent, who was powerless to prevent himself being caught up in the World No.4’s rampant pace of hitting.

Following an 11-2, 11-5 victory in 37 minutes, Asal will now take on World No.2 Diego Elias in the final match of the PSA World Tour season. The pair have already played this week, with Asal prevailing 2-1 in a scrappy Group A contest.

The 22-year-old is aiming to become the first man since Peter Nicol in 2001 to win three World Tour Finals in a row.

“It feels amazing to play in front of this crowd,” said Asal.

“All of this crowd today were coming to watch squash and I’m super proud of this view [of the packed crowd].

“Yesterday, I took the risk [to ease off in his final group match]. Yesterday Mazen [Hesham] played quite well and in the second game I pushed. I thought all of his shots were going to go into the tins, but then I realised he was playing and fighting. 

“In the third I said to myself that if he’s hungry then leave it until tomorrow because I’m playing legends. I have no fear about anyone on tour. I’m just playing my squash, I’m believing in myself that I am one of the best, if not the best, players in the world. 

“I’m looking forward to tomorrow for sure against Diego. He’s one of the best players on tour, I think it’s a good final for everyone, a spicy final. I’m super proud.”

Result

[4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) bt [2] Ali Farag (EGY) 2-0: 11-2, 11-5 (37m)