U.S. Open RD1: Shahin Powers Past Wildcard Sedky

Egypt’s World No.21 Nadine Shahin powered past United States’ wildcard Laila Sedky to book her place in the second round of the FS Investments U.S. Open Squash Championships.

World No.170 Sedky, who is the younger sister of World No.56 Reeham, was making her first appearance at the U.S. Open but she struggled to find her corners and accuracy as the experience of Shahin proved to be the difference.

The Egyptian took the first game confidently, before doubling her lead in the second. Seattle-born Sedky began to improve in the third game as she pulled together a stronger performance, however, Shahin proved to be too strong for the American as she completed an 11-2, 11-6, 11-6 victory.

Shahin will face World No.1 and defending champion Raneem El Welily in the next round.

“I’ve started this summer with a different coach, Omar Abdel Meguid,” said the 22-year-old Egyptian.

“So he’s been pushing me mentally and physically. Lately I’ve been feeling more confident and ready.

“I have no expectations [against Raneem El Welily], she has been my role model and hopefully I can give her a run for her money tomorrow and hope for the match.”

Elsewhere, England’s Julianne Courtice will face Egypt’s Yathreb Adel in the next round after she overcame Canada’s Danielle Letourneau in straight games at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia.

Result:
Nadine Shahin (EGY) bt [WC] Laila Sedky (USA) 3-0: 11-2, 11-6, 11-6 (21m)
Julianne Courtice (ENG) bt Danielle Letourneau (CAN) 3-0: 11-3, 11-9, 12-10 (31m)