Paris, the enchanting city of romance and art, became the backdrop for the start of Season 9 of my squash journey, the first PSA Platinum event of the new season which took place from August 27 through September 2, 2023. Beyond the gripping squash matches, it was the allure of Paris, the delectable breakfasts, the city’s undeniable charm, and the mouthwatering croissants that left an indelible mark on my heart. What made this experience even more special was the unique location of the tournament: The Palais de Tokyo – Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris, which also hosted a groundbreaking event for the sport.
Join me as I recount my Parisian adventure, with a special focus on this extraordinary venue, and the inspiration it provided as I scaled to the top 5 of the world rankings during this historic tournament and moved into the Semifinals of this important tournament.
The Palais de Tokyo – Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris: A Setting for History
Situated on the grounds of the Palais de Tokyo, one of Europe’s largest contemporary art centers, the Paris Squash tournament made history by being the first major professional squash event held in France since the 1994 French Open. The choice of venue was nothing short of spectacular, as it showcased the sport’s evolution and its merging with the world of contemporary art.
A Glass Showcourt Amidst Artistic Splendor
The glass show court, where the squash matches unfolded, was a masterpiece in itself. Nestled on the grounds of the Palais de Tokyo, it allowed both players and spectators to bask in the artistic splendor of their surroundings. The iconic Eiffel Tower, with its elegant silhouette, stood tall and proud in the background, reminding us that we were in the heart of one of the world’s most celebrated cities.
As a player in this historic tournament, I had the privilege of gracing this extraordinary court and even reached the Semifinals, an achievement I will forever associate with this remarkable venue. The fusion of squash with contemporary art created a vibrant and electric atmosphere that fueled my determination to succeed on the court. It was a reminder that sport and art share the common ground of passion and dedication.
My steps towards the Semifinals:
The twists and turns of the competition brought forth moments of exhilaration, resilience, and sheer determination. I faced formidable opponents and navigated through the highs and lows, ultimately leaving my mark on the court. Let’s dive into the highlights, challenges, and everything in between that made this tournament a chapter in my squash career worth remembering.
1st round:
[7] Amanda Sobhy (USA): bye
2nd round:
[7] Amanda Sobhy (USA) bt Nadine Shahin (EGY): 3-0 (11-2, 11-1, 11-8)
3rd round:
[7] Amanda Sobhy (USA) bt Lucy Beecroft (ENG): 3-0 (11-2, 11-4, 11-2)
Quarter-finals:
[7] Amanda Sobhy (USA) bt [4] Joelle King (NZL): 3-2 (3-11, 8-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-2)
Semi-finals:
[1] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bt [7] Amanda Sobhy (USA): 0-3 (11-9, 11-6, 11-4)
A Gathering of Squash’s Elite
It was a testament to the growing popularity and global reach of squash, as players from all corners of the world came together, male and female, showcasing their remarkable skills on this historic stage, to compete at the highest level.
A Historic Parisian Adventure
My Parisian adventure at the Palais de Tokyo was a unique and historic experience. It combined the excitement of professional squash with the enchantment of one of the world’s most iconic cities and its rich artistic heritage. As I look back on this remarkable journey, I carry with me the memories of this extraordinary venue, the inspiration it provided, and the significance of being part of squash history in Paris. The Paris Squash tournament was more than just a sporting event; it was a celebration of art, culture, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
I carry the energy and inspiration from my time in Paris to compete once again on the squash courts, knowing that each new tournament is an opportunity to continue this incredible journey. Paris may have been a milestone, but the path ahead promises even more exciting challenges and victories.
Now, with these memories firmly etched in my heart, the next stop on the tour is Qatar.
Love
