England’s newly crowned World No1 Nick Matthew has become the first player to confirm his participation in the ROWE British Grand Prix Squash Championships, to be staged in the English city of Manchester from 15-20 September.
The 29-year-old who recently became the sixteenth player in history to top the men’s world list and only the second English-born World No.1, has an impressive record at the National Squash Centre venue in the heart of Manchester’s Sportcity, having won the third staging of the British Grand Prix in 2006; three British National titles; as well as his second British Open crown last year.
The ROWE British Grand Prix – Manchester 2010, one of only ten Professional Squash Association (PSA) Super Series events in 2010, and the only PSA Super Series ranking event to be staged in the UK this year, establishes Manchester alongside other major squash destinations including New York, New Delhi, Cairo, Canberra, Hong Kong, Kuwait City, Doha and Dammam (Saudi Arabia).
“This is a very exciting time for squash and the elevation of the British Grand Prix to Europe’s leading PSA Super Series World Tour event is further evidence of the success of the men’s international circuit,” said Sheffield-based Matthew.
“It’s particularly good news for the players who love playing in front of Manchester’s loyal and knowledgeable crowds,” said the Yorkshireman who secured the sport’s premier position after winning the Sky Open in Egypt in May - a triumph which marked his fourth World Tour title of 2010 and moved the Englishman ahead of arch rival Ramy Ashour to end a prolonged and intense spell chasing the mercurial Egyptian.
“Nick Matthew is the ultimate competitor and his record and consistency over the past twelve months has been nothing short of incredible,” said Event Manager Peter Schmidl.
“Not only is Nick the most successful and consistent player currently on the PSA World Tour, but he is arguably the most exciting to watch and certainly one of the most well-supported. His entry in this year’s ROWE British Grand Prix will undoubtedly prove a major attraction for all spectators in Manchester and is further testament to the highest regard that the players hold for the championships", added Schmidl.