British Open QFs: Asal Powers Past Brownell 

World No.4 Mostafa Asal continued his faultless progress through the men’s draw with an entertaining three-game victory over Timothy Brownell in front of a fervent crowd in The Rep Theatre. 

Asal, who is yet to drop a game at this year’s event following prior victories over Karim El Hammamy and Marwan ElShorbagy, defeated the American No.1 by an 11-5, 11-9, 11-7 scoreline to set up a box office semi-final encounter against Paul Coll.

Despite having never played Brownell on the PSA World Tour ahead of the match today, Asal started at a furious pace, matching his explosive hitting with some exquisite touch in the front two corners. 

Brownell, who wore heavy strapping on his left knee throughout the encounter, struggled to match the hitting power of Asal in the first game, falling a game behind after 12 minutes. 

The second game proved a far closer affair, with Brownell buoyed on by a home crowd who seemingly accepted the 26-year-old as one of their own. The left-hander displayed some expressive racket work to come from 7-4 down to 9-9, but unfortunately couldn’t bring himself level, with Asal hitting a screaming winner to double his advantage in the match. 

The pair continued to open up the court and trade winners with regularity, but it was Asal who always held a significant buffer as the third game progressed. ‘The Raging Bull’ moved to match ball after 40 minutes and capped off his impressive victory with a thumping forehand drive.

After the match, Asal said: “The crowd, it was like I was playing America! But it was fun today and Timmy is a reallygreat player, and I’m really pleased to see players around my age doing really well. He’s a unique and talented player. He is super hard to play against, so all credit to him. 

“I’m really happy to be performing like this right now, no issues, no bans or anything. Last year I didn’t get to play at the British Open, it’s an amazing crowd, so thank you to everyone. I’m consistent now, winning titles at Black Ball and in Florida – I didn’t get my hands on the trophy at the World Championships, but it’s about trusting the process. 

“Lots of changes have happened this year, and hopefully, next season is going to be even better.”

On his upcoming semi-final against Paul Coll, he added: “It’s going to be an amazing night tomorrow. Hopefully, it’s not going to be as late as it was in Egypt, so I’m looking forward to it for sure.”

Result: 

[4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) bt Timothy Brownell (USA) 3-0: 11-5, 11-9, 11-7 (40m)