After years of waiting, the World Squash Organisation revealed in October 2023 that Squash will officially be included in the line-up of games recognised during the 2028 rendition of the competition.
In a recent podcast interview by Studio Sembang with Malaysian national treasure and globally renowned squash player, Datuk Nicol David, the athlete was asked about this monumental change for inclusion of squash in the OlympicsĀ by the host of the show, Malaysian actress Amelia Henderson.
Capturing a snippet of the interview and sharing it on the podcast’s official TikTok page @studiosembang, Henderson asked David if she would ever consider throwing her hat back in the ring again, and come out of retirement to potentially compete in the 2028 Olympics.
“No, not in a million years. I think every Malaysian is really, truly hoping that I’ll say yes to coming out. And everyone is willing to see me slog for five years to train, but it’s only half of it. Playing is one thing, but the training alone is difficult,” said David in the clip.
Speaking on the matter relating to her age, David, who is currently 40 years old, stated that her physical being would not be able to do the same things she was able to in the past, adding that there is not only an expiry date for athletes in general, but especially squash players.
In an extended clip of the interview on YouTube, David added that since being retired for the past five years, she has hardly played squash, though she does coach on occasion.
“I’m truly excited about finally getting squash into the Olympics for 2028. I’m so, so excited for our Malaysian team and the world of squash. They can actually be Olympians one day, and they can say that I am an Olympian too, as a squash player. All the hard work paid off eventually,” added David.
Receiving praise in the comments section, many Malaysians expressed their hope that Nicol will be involved in either the coaching or support of Malaysia’s 2028 squash team, adding that despite her opinions about her age, she looks wonderful regardless.
“She has earned her place as one of the greats. Now it’s time for her to kickback and relax,” wrote one user.
Watch the full TikTok clip below:
@studiosembang alaaaa deep down kita semua masih mengharap tapi we have been very blessed to have @Nicol David yang telah mengharumkan nama negara dipersada dunia. dah ready nak tengok ke? jumpa later 10pm kat @YouTube @Spotify & @Apple Podcasts k! #jomsembang #studiosembang
Hardly an arguable fact, Datuk Nicol David stands the test of time as one of the greatest squash athletes the world has ever seen.
Also read: “2 Legends, 1 Photo” ā M’sians Geek Out Over Nicol David Meeting David Beckham for the 1st Time
