Coll makes history in Hull

Paul Coll has become first New Zealand man to win the prestigious British Open squash title.

Photo: PSA World Tour 2021

The 29-year-old from Greymouth has beaten world champion Ali Farag (Egypt) 6-11, 11-6, 11-6, 11-8 in the final in Hull.

It is only the second time Coll has beaten Farag in 15 meetings to claim the biggest win of his career.

“It’s been a long journey for myself. Coming right from juniors, I had to leave home at a young age. This moment right here makes it all worth it,” Coll said after the final.

“To have my coach in the crowd, one of my really good friends, Lee, in the crowd, just makes it extra special to be able to do that. My parents were supposed to be here, but due to Covid they can’t travel, so just super proud of this moment.

“I just want to thank everyone from New Zealand and everyone who’s helped me over my career to get to this stage. There’s too many people to single out, but thank you all. I love you all.

“Thank you to the whole of New Zealand for getting up at two AM and watching. Thank you so much, everyone in the crowd who was here and came out to support, I just want to thank you all for everything that you’ve done for me.”

There is potential for Paul Coll to improve in the world rankings from his current fourth place to third when the new rankings come out at the beginning of next month.

Ross Norman is the only other New Zealander to play in the men’s British Open final.

Norman lost the 1986 title match to 10-time champion Jahangir Khan.

Dame Susan Devoy and Leilani Joyce are both multiple winners of the women’s title.

Dame Susan won the tournament eight times from 1984-1990 and 1992, while Joyce prevailed in 1999 and 2000.