The Professional Squash Association (PSA) has inducted Pakistan’s former world champion Janshir Khan into its Hall of Fame.
At a special induction evening held at the Hong Kong Football Club in Hong Kong on Sunday, Malaysian female squash star Nicole David was honored as the newest member of the PSA Hall of Fame alongside Pakistan’s legendary player.
Jansher and Nicole are the third and fourth players, respectively, to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, which was launched earlier this year to recognize the achievements of the game’s most influential characters, past and present.
Notably, only two male players inducted into the Hall of Fame are from Pakistan. Jahangir Khan and Susan Devoy of New Zealand are on the first and second positions.
Pakistani star Janshir has won a record eight World Open titles and six British Open titles.
He played the most 118 finals in a professional career while winning a record 99 titles. He also holds the distinction of being world number one for 97 months in his entire career.
Jansher said he was very happy as Hong Kong was his second home and he played the Hong Kong Open for many years and won eight Hong Kong Opens.
“So Hong Kong is really the best place for me. And I’m very happy to come to Hong Kong [and] See my old friends. It is an honor to receive this award.”
Speaking on the occasion, PSA Chief Executive Alex Gough said: “Nicole and Jansher are two of the most iconic figures in the history of squash and have both left a lasting legacy on the game.
“Nicole has inspired so many squash players — in Malaysia and around the world — and her nine-year record at the top of the world rankings will surely never be bettered. This summer’s Paris 2024 Olympic Games will see her as Deputy Chef de Mission. Awarded the title.
“Like Nicole, Jansher’s name will forever be associated with squash and the records he has set in the men’s game are nothing short of incredible. We are delighted to have the opportunity to celebrate both players.”
Introducing Khan, men’s world No. 1 Ali Farag said: “It’s a really special moment for me to be standing here as we succeed the greatest squash player of all time, in my opinion and that of many. Respect Khan.
“Mr Jansheer, on behalf of myself, everyone here in this room and everyone in the squash world and beyond, we would like to thank you for so many reasons.
“I have been blessed with many things during my squash journey, but being compared to you is definitely the biggest honor of my career.
“Tonight, we celebrate not only your victories, but the legacy you have created and left behind.”
Frog added thanks and congratulations to Jansher for his on-court achievements, inspiring future generations of players, showing the world ‘poetry in motion’ and moving the game forward.