21 interesting facts about Squash

Squash, a sport that combines agility, strategy, and endurance, has fascinated players and spectators alike for centuries. Originating from a game called ‘rackets’ played in London’s prisons, squash has evolved into a globally recognized sport with a unique set of rules and an array of equipment. It demands not only physical prowess but also mental acuity, as players maneuver a small, hollow rubber ball around the court with precision and speed. From its humble beginnings to its hopeful inclusion in the Olympic Games, squash has a rich history and a vibrant present. Here are 21 interesting and informative facts about squash that highlight its complexity, global reach, and the dedication of those who play it.

1. Squash was invented in Harrow School, England, in the early 19th century.
2. The game was initially called “Squasher” because the ball squashed on impact with the wall.
3. Squash balls come in different colors, each indicating a different level of bounce and speed.
4. The World Squash Federation (WSF) is the international governing body for squash.
5. Squash courts are 32 feet long and 21 feet wide, with a front wall line that is 15 feet high.
6. The sport is played in over 185 countries by millions of players.
7. Squash was voted the healthiest sport by Forbes in 2003 due to its cardiovascular benefits and high calorie burn rate.
8. The first squash court in North America was built at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire, in 1884.
9. Egypt is known for producing some of the world’s top squash players, especially in recent decades.
10. The longest squash match in history lasted 2 hours and 46 minutes between Jahangir Khan and Gamal Awad in 1983.
11. Jahangir Khan, a Pakistani squash player, is one of the sport’s legends, having won the World Open 6 times and the British Open 10 times consecutively.
12. Squash rackets were originally made of laminated timber, but modern rackets are typically made from composite materials like carbon fiber.
13. The sport has its own Hall of Fame, with the first inductions occurring in 1993.
14. Squash has been considered for inclusion in the Olympic Games multiple times but has not yet been successful.
15. A squash ball must be hit below the line on the front wall and above the tin, a metal area at the bottom of the front wall.
16. Women’s squash turned professional in the 1980s, decades after the men’s professional circuit was established.
17. The first-ever squash court is still in existence at Harrow School.
18. Squash glasses or goggles are recommended for players to protect their eyes during play.
19. The game can be played in singles or doubles format, although singles is more common.
20. The Professional Squash Association (PSA) oversees the men’s and women’s professional tours.
21. Training for squash often includes drills that improve agility, power, and endurance, reflecting the sport’s physical demands.

Squash is a sport that beautifully blends physical intensity with mental acuity, offering a challenging and rewarding experience for those who take it up. Its history, from its inception at Harrow School to its potential future in the Olympic Games, reflects a journey of growth and global recognition. The facts presented underscore the sport’s rich tradition, the evolution of equipment and play, and the exceptional athleticism of its players. As squash continues to expand its reach and captivate more enthusiasts worldwide, it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of sports that require not just physical skill but strategic thinking and resilience.

Squash, a sport that combines agility, strategy, and endurance, has fascinated players and spectators alike for centuries. Originating from a game called ‘rackets’ played in London’s prisons, squash has evolved into a globally recognized sport with a unique set of rules and an array of equipment. It demands not only…