The argument about Squash in the Olympics continues.
A few weeks ago, a tweet from UK female squash star Laura Massaro response to how top-line golf stars are snubbing the forthcoming Rio Olympics due to issues – mainly the Zika virus, but she was more enraged how Rory McIlroy stated he has nothing to prove by taking part.
Yeah, golf is a great sport, but for a top player to state he has no need to participate is darn right disrespectful to other athletes. Furthermore, the IOC must be looking stupid, as a sport they have included will not have top stars taking part in the Olympics – in a nutshell, a public relations failure for Golf.
Image credit: Gary Lineker @GaryLineker
This argument has not only upset squash stars, but a squash fan and football legend threw his support for squash- Gary Lineker – even tweeted his love for squash and how it should be a part of the Olympics.
Players across the world unite
Squash players from around the world expressed their dismay and frustration about squash not being a part of the Olympics, especially as Golf was put on the Olympic programme by the IOC after a 112-year absence. But one squash player in India was more annoyed.
Leading Indian male squash player Saurav Ghosal (below in the centre) told a press conference: “I think squash players have made it clear that being a part of the Olympics would be a massive achievement and everyone holds true to that word. “ It is very frustrating to read the World Nos. 1 and 2 of golf pulling out and Rory McIlroy saying that it doesn’t really matter.’’
Saurav Ghosal – Photo Credit: The Hindu
He also stated how frustrating for squash players on a personal level and for the sport at a broader level. This is understandable, but the IOC must be looking stupid – reintroduces golf after 10 decades and no top player #epicfail
If you look at other racket sports – badminton, tennis and even table tennis are in the Olympics, so why not squash? Since it could be a political thing.
We need not worry as the Government is lobbying to get squash into the Olympics now; one Christina Rees is raising the matter to local MPs to support the cause to push to have Squash in the Olympics.
Memo to the IOC, you should be taking note and realise that squash is a global sport with strong community appeal and rich history of great international players spanning all continents.
