Chicago becomes the squash capital of the world for a week with $1.3M on the line

The world’s squash elite are heading to the Windy City, and they’re not just chasing glory; they’re chasing history.

The PSA World Championships presented by the Walter Family kick off Friday, May 9, and run through Saturday, May 17, at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness, 211 North Stetson, where fans will witness a week of high-octane rallies, thrilling matchups, and one of the richest prize purses the sport has ever seen, a record $1.3 million.

All eyes will be on Team USA’s Olivia Weaver, the nation’s No. 1 player and this year’s fourth seed. A semifinalist in 2023, Weaver is one of 11 top contenders vying for the title — and a shot at becoming the first American World Champion in squash. Fellow American Amanda Sobhy, ranked No. 2 in the U.S., is also back in the spotlight after returning to the world’s top 10 following a second Achilles injury. Together, they’ll look to serve up something special for the home crowd.

But the road to the top won’t be easy.

Egypt’s Nouran Gohar, the reigning champion and current World No. 1, will defend her title. Meanwhile, Nour El Sherbini, a seven-time World Champion, aims to tie the legendary Nicol David’s record, a milestone that could shake up the sport’s history books.

On the men’s side, Timothy Brownell, ranked No. 31 globally, leads the U.S. effort. He’ll face stiff competition from squash powerhouses like Egypt’s Mostafa Asal, World No. 1; Ali Farag, a four-time champion; and Diego Elias, who made history last year as the first-ever South American to win the title.

With stars aligning and stakes at an all-time high, the PSA World Championships promise drama, athleticism, and squash at its absolute best, right in the heart of Chicago.