Massaro relishing defence of PSA Dubai World Series Finals crown

Sport360 staff 13:57 24/05/2017
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  • Laura Massaro.

    Reigning PSA Dubai World Series Finals women’s champion Laura Massaro says she is relishing the prospect of defending her title when this year’s tournament gets underway at Dubai Opera on June 6.

    Massaro won the Dubai World Series Finals last year by twice coming from behind to defeat Raneem El Welily and lift one of the biggest titles of her career.

    But the 33-year-old admits she will have to be at her best to make it back-to-back titles as she expects this year’s tournament to be tougher than ever.

    “Last year was an unbelievable experience, to go into a season ending event against the top eight and win is something I’m really proud of,” said Massaro.

    “It’s arguably the toughest event to win because the level is so high from day one. And this year, going in as defending champ makes it a little different. I know exactly what to expect but I’m really excited.

    “I can’t get too far ahead though – I will just go into the pool game trying to play my best and see where it takes me because this year has been the most unique season I’ve ever played in.

    “But this season there’s been a different winner, different finalists and different names at nearly every major event – which is great for the sport – and shows how high the level is. In Dubai there are eight high quality athletes and we all have different traits, training styles and philosophies.

    “I feel proud, as the eldest alongside Nicol in that group, that I’m still staying with the players in what is probably my third era in women’s squash as the game is ever changing.”

    This year’s World Series Finals features a $160,000 (AED 587,712) equal prize fund for both the men and women and a unique best of three games format throughout the group stages and semi-finals – before reverting to the traditional best of five format for the final – something which Massaro, who finished third in the Road to Dubai Standings, enjoys.

    “You have to come out of the blocks as quick as you can because the first four or five points can be crucial,” said the English No1, who will be joined by compatriots Alison Waters and Sarah-Jane Perry in Dubai.

    “I enjoy that best of three format and think it was exciting and I’m happy to be back in that line-up.

    “It’s great that there’s a good English contingent going this year as well and it will be exciting to have the other girls there as well. As a Brit as well it’s always nice to get a bit of sun and I find that if I can bring a little bit of holiday time and combine it with the squash side that helps me be more relaxed and give my all on court.

    Tickets for the 2017 PSA Dubai World Series Finals are available to purchase through www.dubaiopera.com or from the Dubai Opera Box Office. For further information on both the PSA World Series and the PSA World Tour, please visit www.worldseriesfinals.com

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