U.S. Open RD2: El Welily Gets Title Defence Off to Dream Start

Egypt’s World No.1 Raneem El Welily began her title defence with a dream start in Philadelphia after she took just 23 minutes to despatch compatriot Nadine Shahin in straight games at the FS Investments U.S. Open Squash Championships.

The Egyptian, who received a bye into the second round, produced a stunning display last year to clinch the title in Philadelphia last year and El Welily proved she is the one to beat once again this year after she comfortably moved past World No.21 Shahin, who defeated wildcard Laila Sedky in round one.

El Welily, who has already reached two finals so far this season, was in spellbinding form as she nullified any attacking intent from her compatriot to secure an 11-5, 11-4, 11-5 victory.

She will now face compatriot Yathreb Adel in the next round after she battled past England’s Julianne Courtice in a tough five-game encounter at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia.

“I’m always happy to be back here in Philly,” said World No.1 El Welily afterwards.

“I absolutely love it here and the atmosphere is always amazing.

“It’s definitely not been a bad start to the season. I’m pretty pleased with the way I have performed, but the season is still very long and it is only two tournaments out of 10 or 12. It counts for nothing so I have to put it behind me and keep moving forward.

“I think there are a lot of inspiring Egyptian squash players currently playing the sport and if I happen to be one of them then I am extremely happy with that. I think they just look at me that way because I’m the oldest currently, but it’s not just me it’s everyone. I’ve been inspired and I am being inspired every day. Every Egyptian girl has her own characteristics on court and we are all aspiring to be the best.”

Result:
[1] Raneem El Welily (EGY) bt Nadine Shahin (EGY) 3-0: 11-5, 11-4, 11-5 (23m)