In squash - The Podcast

Zena Wooldridge, President of the World Squash Federation, returns exactly 100 episodes after her last appearance — when we were celebrating squash’s successful bid for LA 2028. This time, we dive into where things stand now.

We unpack preparations for LA 28, including the 16-player qualification pathway and the various scenarios that could shape the Olympic field. We discuss the Comcast venue, how the professional game is aligning with Olympic demands, and what changes fans might see as squash prepares for a global audience.

We also look ahead to Brisbane 2032, with a crucial decision looming on squash’s continued Olympic inclusion.

An essential update on squash’s Olympic journey — where we are, and what comes next. #weareopensquash #LA 28 #squashify #WorldSquashFederation

Squash Player Magazine's one and only Mike Dale is back on the pod for episode 387 — a long-overdue catch-up.

The last time Mike joined us was a couple of years ago, recorded during his daughter’s swim practice. This time, we reconnect in the aftermath of a house move and turn our attention to something far bigger: squash’s road to the LA 2028 Olympic Games.

With just 16 spots available in both men's and women's events, Mike breaks down the proposed Olympic qualification pathway, what it means for players, nations, rankings, and the competitive realities that come with such a limited field. We talk structure, timelines, and the inevitable questions and challenges that sit beneath the headline announcements.

As always with Mike, it’s informed, clear, and grounded in the realities of the professional game — cutting through the noise and focusing on what actually matters.

#squashplayermagazine #weareopensquash #squashify

1975 British Open Champion and former World No. 1 Qamar Zaman returns to the podcast — and somehow manages to top his unforgettable appearance on Episode 217.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Qamar reflects on the outstanding performances of World Junior Champions Amina Orfi and Mohammed Zakaria, both crowned winners at the recent Karachi Gold event, and what their success means for the future of the game. He also shares his thoughts on Pakistan’s next wave of talent, with Noor Zaman and Hamza Khan both showing serious promise this season.

We dig into Qamar’s perspective on the Pakistani underage junior controversy, his candid views on the current men’s World No. 1 Mostafa Asal, and the state of the modern game.

And of course, no conversation with Qamar Zaman would be complete without a look back at history. We take a deep dive into his iconic 1975 British Open triumph, including a fascinating breakdown of his legendary quarter-final victory over Geoff Hunt.

A masterclass in squash, past, present, and future — this is one not to miss.

Three finals on the trot and one of the matches of the year already on his résumé. Despite an early exit in Karachi, Youssef Ibrahim has been must-watch squash this season. We sit down with Youssef to unpack a remarkable run of form, including the China Open final with Mohamed Abouelghar that many have tipped as the match of the year. Youssef reflects on his season to date, how his body has responded post-injury, that epic China Open clash, and what lies ahead with the Tournament of Champions on the horizon.

Couldn’t have asked for a better way to kick off 2026 than welcoming my partner in podcast crime, Squash Radio’s Bill Buckingham, back on the pod. We chop it up for over an hour, diving deep into the season so far, the current state (and future) of SquashTV, LA 28 and beyond, and of course a healthy dose of Qwash Bad Squash.