In squash - The Podcast

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.

World No. 13 Marina Stefanoni makes her In Squash debut, and it was an impressive one at that. One of four American women now ranked inside the PSA top 20, Marina has had a breakout season, climbing from just inside the top 30 to just outside the top 10, and picking up impressive wins and pushing some of the very best players in the world along the way.

We dive into her rapid rise this season, the growing strength of women’s squash in the United States, and how close she feels to consistently breaking into the very top group on tour. Marina also shares insights into her training approach, the mindset required to handle setbacks at the elite level, and what it takes to compete week in and week out against players like Nour El Sherbini, Amina Orfi, and Satomi Watanabe.

We also talk about how exciting the NSL has been for her playing for the SoNo Sharks, and how much she's enjoyed playing under the unique NSL match play format.

A great listen with one of the brightest rising stars in the women’s game.