Showcasing Squash in France

(ATR) A Professional Squash Association tournament two hours from Paris showcases the sport as it seeks inclusion in the 2024 Olympic Games.

The Open International de Squash de Nantes, held from September 4-9, provided high-quality competition on the stage of the 18th century Théâtre Graslin in the city of Nantes.

Since its inception in 2014, the tournament has combined sport and culture by taking world-class squash to some of the most eye-catching venues in Nantes. This year, a state-of-the-art all-glass showcourt was erected in the beautiful setting of the Théâtre Graslin and each match was opened by a musical performance featuring the soprano Anne-Sophie Duprels, quatuor Liger and DJ One Up.

"I’ve been playing for 18 years and I have seen a lot of venues, so to be sat there and have my breath taken away is impressive," said England’s James Willstrop, the 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medalist.

"It’s going to spread the word about squash and present the sport in a great light. It’s another amazing venue that you can add to the list and shows that a glass court can be set-up anywhere."

The tournament is the biggest PSA event to be held in France. More than 4,000 spectators turned out over the course of the week as England’s Declan James and Belgium’s Nele Gilis claimed the men’s and women’s titles, respectively.

For the third year in a row, prize money for the tournament increased. A $6,000 increase from last year meant $46,000 was on offer across the men’s and women’s events.

"The Open International de Squash de Nantes has gotten bigger and better year after year and we are delighted to see the tournament reach even greater heights over the past week," said PSA Chief Executive Alex Gough in a statement.

Written by Gerard Farek

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