Nicol David’s Olympic dream lives on through two Malaysians

Nicol David's long-awaited Olympic dream became a reality when two Malaysian squash players, Ng Eain Yow and S Sivasangari, secured qualification places for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The former world No 1, who had spent years campaigning for squash's inclusion in the Games, watched in pride as her compatriots achieved something she had spent years fighting to make possible.

Eain Yow and Sivasangari both won their respective gold medals at the Asian Games, setting the stage for their historic performances. Their victories not only secured Malaysia's fifth and sixth gold medals at the Games but also ensured the first two squash qualification places for LA28. Sivasangari's personal triumph was particularly noteworthy, as she had overcome a serious road accident four years prior that left her with neck and spinal injuries.

The achievement meant as much to her as any gold medal, and she expressed her desire to continue improving. Eain Yow, meanwhile, was clear about his future goals, stating that he aspired to become the world's top squash player, world champion, and Olympic gold medalist. The Malaysian squash team went on to win two more gold medals, with the men's team reclaiming the title and the women's team retaining it.

The success of the squash campaign extended beyond the medals, as Olympic inclusion provided a new platform for the sport to reach children and strengthened the case for funding and improved facilities for national associations.