Laura Massaro recalled in her autobiography how a young Egyptian had total disregard for older opponents when she came over for the former world No1s own tournament in 2013

The evolving dynamics of professional squash have been profoundly influenced by emerging talents who challenge the status quo, epitomised by the remarkable ascent of Egypts Nouran Gohar.

Former world champion Laura Massaro reflected on the seismic shift in the sport, characterised by Gohars unyielding belief and disregard for established hierarchies in one eye-opening chapter from her autobiography All In.

Gohars entry into the squash world marked a departure from traditional norms. Unlike previous generations, Gohars approach was marked by an intense focus and competitive spirit, both on and off the court. There was always a pecking order in squash, but that has been broken down to a certain degree, and Gohar is the epitome of that, Massaro notes.

At just 16, Gohars demeanor was a paradox: shy and reserved off the court, yet fierce and unrelenting in competition.

This contrast created a unique challenge for her opponents, including Massaro. It was a mind mess, she recalls. Gohars quiet presence off the court belied a tenacity and aggression that were evident once the match began. This was a stark departure from the decorum of players like Nicol David, known for her polite and reserved nature.

The influence of Egyptian players has reshaped the landscape of womens squash, breaking down stigmas and setting new standards of fitness and mental fortitude. Massaro highlights Camille Sermes victory at the 2020 Tournament of Champions, where the French player had to defeat an Egyptian opponent in every round to claim the title. This feat underscored the formidable presence and resilience of Egyptian athletes.

The rigorous training regimen of Egyptian players from a young age has been instrumental in their success. Unlike European players, who traditionally peak in their late twenties, Egyptians excel much earlier. Massaro, reflecting on her own career, acknowledges the adaptability required to stay competitive in this new era. Weve all had to swallow our own pride and change with the sport, she says, noting her pride in maintaining a top-ten world ranking for over a decade amidst these changes.

Massaros personal experience with Gohar began when she hosted the CourtCare Open in Chorley, Lancashire, in 2013. Gohars family reached out to inquire about training opportunities in the UK, showcasing their dedication and organizational skills.

Massaro was struck by Gohars relentless drive and focus, even at such a young age. She had an absolute relentless desire to hit the ball hard and not care about the opponent, Massaro recalls.

When she came over I had never seen a player of her calibre for someone so young. She had an absolute relentless desire to hit the ball hard and not care about the opponent. It was like she was playing on her own, playing a computer game and maybe why she achieved so much so early in her career, winning the British and US Open titles before she was 21.

Gohars moniker, The Terminator, aptly captures her on-court persona. Her early matches, including a memorable encounter with Victoria Lust, demonstrated her fearless approach. Despite losing 3-1, Gohars determination and disregard for external opinions were evident.

Massaros observations of Gohars training regimen further highlighted her exceptional dedication the next morning in practice. I saw her drilling balls down the backhand wall with incredible pace, power, and focus, she recounts, noting the influence of Gohars gymnastics background and her mothers competitive spirit.

Gohars rise has redefined what it means to be a young athlete in professional squash. Her ability to compete at the highest level without waiting to earn respect has set a new precedent.

Massaro wrote: Once Nouran was on tour, you realised what a competitor she was. Her non eye-contact off court may have been borderline disrespectful, but yet you would hear her views after matches and how much she looked up to the top players and so you could tell she was just shy. 

She has simply proved that you dont have to earn respect as a teen on tour. There has been no other player in todays game who has shown that relentless, all in element. And I can include that in myself. I can honestly say she showed me up on court as well and there is a case to answer for that she showed me that I could have been more successful earlier in my career.

Gohars journey underscores a broader transformation in womens squash, where relentless belief, rigorous training, and breaking down cultural barriers have become the new hallmarks of success.