The Malaysian women’s squash team’s victory in the 19th Asian Games 2023 final is particularly significant as it came against defending champions Hong Kong, one of the strongest squash nations in Asia.
Third Gold From Women’s Squash Team
On September 30, 2023, the Malaysian women’s squash team sealed their third gold medal in the 19th Asian Games after defeating defending champions Hong Kong 2-1 in the final round.
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Image via New Straits Times
The women’s squash team led by Rachel Arnold, S. Sivasangari, and Aifa Azman, came from behind after Rachel lost the first match to Tong Tsz Wing in a close five-setter. She gave it her all against Tong Tsz Wing before going down with 11-7, 7-11, 11-8, 8-11, 6-11.
S. Sivasangari fired up the whole game again after producing a dominant performance and winning over Ho Tze Lok 11-5, 11-8, 11-6 to level the points. Malaysia and Hong Kong have one point each to win the gold medal.
Malaysia Third Gold In Aifa Azman’s Hands
Images via Focus Malaysia & Free Malaysia Today
Malaysia’s future gold is now in Aifa Azman’s hands. This 21-year-old girl did not disappoint the audience as she beat Chan Sin Yuk 11-5, 11-8, 11-13, 11-8 to deliver the country’s third gold in the Hangzhou Asian Games.
It was a historic day for Malaysian squash, as the women’s team reclaimed the gold medal they had last won in 2014. It was also Malaysia’s third gold medal of the 19th Asian Games, following previous victories in sailing and equestrian.
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Image via The Star
Malaysia won the gold medal in the women’s squash team event at the Asian Games in 2010 and 2014, under the leadership of former world No. 1 Nicol David. However, in 2018, they lost to India in the semi-finals and had to settle for the bronze medal. Now, the women’s squash team is finally getting back on its feet and showing the world what they are capable of doing for Malaysia.
Overall, the victory is also a boost for Malaysian squash as a whole and shows that the Malaysian women’s team is one of the best in the world. It is also to inspire more young Malaysians to take up squash. Squash is already a popular sport, but the team’s success at the Asian Games is likely to further increase its popularity.
