World No. 2 Roger Federer is backing Squash to be added to the Olympic Games program in 2020.
“I think it’s a wonderful sport. It’s unfortunate some sports don’t get the opportunity to be in the Olympics,” said Federer. “I think squash would deserve it. They run a great tour and they have great players and characters. I’d personally be very happy for them.”
The 17-time major champion had the opportunity to meet women’s squash world No. 1 Nicol David at the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam. Federer expressed his support to David and revealed he played the sport growing up.
“I used to play it a lot when I was younger, every Sunday with my dad,” Federer said. “I started with a wooden racquet like I did in tennis. I’ve always been a big fan of the sport.”
Federer and David conversed over dinner. David, a native of Malaysia and resident of Amsterdam, was thrilled to spend quality time with the Swiss superstar.
“It was exciting. He’s such a great guy and true champion,” said David. “He’s so down to earth. He showed us what it’s like behind the scenes to be a tennis player.
“It’s very similar to squash,” added the 29-year-old from Penang who has topped the women’s world rankings since august 2006. “So it’s been great to spend time with him.”
When asked if she played tennis, David said: “I’m a tennis fan but not a player. I follow Roger’s progress and he definitely brings the sport up to another level.”
World Squash Federation President N Ramachandran was delighted by the tennis star’s endorsement: “It is fantastic to have Roger Federer supporting Squash’s campaign to join the Olympic Sports Program.
“His endorsement means a great deal because he is a true sporting icon who knows what it means to compete at the Olympic Games.”
