In squash - The Podcast

Ep. 402 – Johnny Williams on Orfi, Asal, the World Championships & the Future of Squash

Squash TV’s very own Johnny Williams returns to the pod as we break down the tremendous 2026 World Championship.

We dive deep into Amina Orfi’s historic run to becoming the youngest ever World Champion, her maturity under pressure, tactical discipline, and whether we’re witnessing the arrival of “Gohar 2.0.” We also unpack the incredible final against Nour El Sherbini and what lies ahead in Sherbini’s pursuit of World Title number nine.

On the men’s side, we analyze Mostafa Asal’s dominant season and second consecutive World Championship, including his fascinating tactical battle against Diego Elias in the final.

We also discuss:
• Diego Elias and how he handles adversity at the highest level
• Youssef Ibrahim’s rise as one of the sport’s true box-office players
• Rob Owen’s comments on officiating and El Gouna
• The vacuum left by Lee Drew’s departure and the continued lack of a successor announcement months later
• A preview of the British Open, which gets underway tomorrow
• Early thoughts on the World Tour Finals

A wide-ranging, honest, and passionate conversation on the current state of the professional game with one of squash broadcasting’s best voices.

Ep. 401 — Nathan Clarke Recaps a Historic World Championship

Now that the dust has settled, Nathan Clarke of Squash Player Magazine joins the podcast to break down one of the most entertaining and historic World Championships in recent memory.

We discuss Amina Orfi becoming the youngest ever women’s world champion, the scrutiny and officiating surrounding her run, and what her victory means for the future of the game. We also dive into Mostafa Asal’s dominant season and second consecutive world title, along with standout performances, controversies, injuries, and the biggest talking points from Giza.

Plus: Sherbini’s future, Siva’s rise, Youssef Ibrahim’s electric squash, Diego Elias’ mental battle, and even a little SquashTV commentary drama.

Jonathan Power’s attacking style and on-court presence were unlike anything squash had seen before; and it served to lay the groundwork for the attacking style of play that we see from the best in the game today. JP returns to the podcast for this milestone 400th episode, bringing that same insightful squash mind to the mic as well. JP has been coaching Mohammed Zakaria, and we talk about how Zakaria’s game has reached another level this season. We also take a deep dive into Diego Elias’ current form and recent win at El Gouna International, including his thoughts on the final which included both Diego and Zakaria, and of course the controversial fifth-game semifinal against Mostafa Asal. JP has provides a different perspective on the current trajectory of officiating in general. Episode 400 is a special one for the podcast, and JP delivers an episode worthy of the milestone.

Luke Butterworth jumps back on the pod and does not disappoint. Luke Butterworth returns to the pod—and once again delivers.

We dive into Greenwich Academy’s incredible run of 10 consecutive high school girls’ squash titles, achieved during Luke’s tenure as Director of Squash. He shares insights into building a sustained culture of excellence and what it takes to stay on top year after year.

Luke is also working closely with several top U.S. pros, including Nick Spirizzi and Caroline Fouts, both of whom are showing strong recent form. We discuss their progress and what’s driving their performances.

On top of that, Luke recently stepped into a new role, making his managerial debut with the NSL’s Greenwich Panthers. We unpack that experience, what he learned from it, and whether this debut was simply a one-off or not.

To wrap things up, Luke lays out a few non-negotiables for anyone serious about elevating their squash game.

Former World Champion, world number two, and one of the very best coaches in the game today—Rodney Martin jumps back onto the pod for another insightful chat.

We dive into his work with Gina Kennedy, who’s been producing some outstanding results this season, and explore what changes have elevated her game. We also get into the mindset of elite players, the intensity and edge at the top level, and whether that competitive fire is what separates the very best.

We also touch on some of the game’s recent talking points, including the El Gouna controversy, and finish with a masterclass segment where Rod shares key non-negotiables for players looking to improve.