TTI Milwaukee Hong Kong Squash Open 2023: Coll Wins Maiden Hong Kong Open Title

Paul Coll has won his maiden TTI Milwaukee Hong Kong Squash Open title after overcoming Ali Farag in an epic five-game battle.

Coll becomes the first-ever male New Zealander to succeed in Hong Kong, with this also being his second Platinum-level title this season having defeated Farag in the U.S. Open.

It was the third time the pair had met this season, and the quality on each occasion has been of the highest order. Coll and Farag were pushing high up the court from the off with the Kiwi looking to take the ball in early. However it was Farag who drew first blood when he converted game ball at the second attempt.

Coll came flying out of the blocks in the second as he charged to a 6-0 lead, finding great success with the forehand drop in the front right corner.

The New Zealander restored parity by taking the second, and he was dominating the middle of the court in the third with his shot variation and unrelenting pressure seeing him go 2-1 up.

But Farag roared back, regaining control of the top of the court as the reigning World Champion held his nerve to level the match which had way gone past the hour mark.

A tense fifth game saw both players trading points right up to 9-9, as a no let decision went the way of Coll to give him one championship ball. An error from Farag saw Coll convert to take the crown.

“I’m stoked,” said Coll afterwards.

“After U.S. Open I was preparing for this one – I had Singapore as well but this was my main target.

“I really wanted to target the Platinums this year and I’ve got my team with me to try and win that.

“I’m happy with my performances – not just tonight but all week. I’ve really tried to play some aggressive squash and this brand that I’m going for.

“To get a second Platinum of the season is very good for my confidence with the way that I’m playing. I want to keep that going for the rest of the season.”

Result
[5] Paul Coll (NZL) bt [1] Ali Farag (EGY) 3-2: 10-12, 11-3, 11-8, 8-11, 11-9 (82m)