Veer Chotrani Exits World Squash Championships After Defeat to Mostafa Asal

Veer Chotrani's participation in the World Squash Championships came to an end after a defeat against the reigning champion Mostafa Asal. This loss follows earlier exits by other Indian players, highlighting a challenging tournament for India. Asal praised Chotrani's skills, emphasizing their shared history in the sport. The tournament continues with other notable players advancing, including Paul Coll and Nathan Lake. India's quest for a singles medal at the World Championships remains unfulfilled.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 11, 2026, 13:26 IST

India's Journey at the World Squash Championships

File image of Indian veteran player Veer Chotrani(Photo: X)

Giza, May 11: India's participation in the World Squash Championships concluded as Veer Chotrani faced a defeat against the Egyptian world No. 1 and reigning champion, Mostafa Asal, in the second round held at Golf Central Palm Hills.

Ranked 45th globally, Chotrani lost the match with scores of 5-11, 2-11, and 4-11, marking the end of India's challenge in the tournament after earlier exits by fellow players Abhay Singh, Ramit Tandon, and Velavan Senthilkumar in the first round.

Asal expressed his respect for Chotrani, stating, "Veer and I have played together extensively, and it’s great to see him performing at his best. We have a history from our junior days and often train together in New York. He’s a player who can surprise you at any moment, so I’m pleased to have secured the win," as reported on the PSA Tour website.

He further added, "Having my team, including Jimbo and Haitham Effat, in my corner is invaluable. This is the biggest tournament of the year, and we are focused on taking it one match at a time. I’m prepared for the next challenge."

India's campaign mirrored last year's performance in Chicago, where they also exited in the second round. To date, India has not secured a medal in singles events at the World Squash Championships.

In other matches, the second seed and 2019 World Championship runner-up, Paul Coll, advanced by defeating France’s Baptiste Masotti in straight games with scores of 11-1, 11-7, and 11-9. He will face Nathan Lake in the third round.

Nathan Lake, returning to this stage for the first time since 2023, triumphed over Muhammad Ashab Irfan with a score of 3-0 (11-3, 14-12, 12-10).

Additionally, Egypt’s World No. 21 Kareem El Torkey progressed to the third round after defeating No. 6 seed Victor Crouin with scores of 11-7, 11-5, and 11-7.