History has been made at 2016 women’s J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions as US-girl Amanda Sobhy has moved into her 1st ever PSA World Series final with a scintillating 11-9, 11-9, 12-10 victory over Egypt’s Nouran Gohar in the semis. “I’m a little shocked, I don’t really have any words,” a breathless Sobhy said.
20-year-old The came through a brutal five-game encounter with World No.4 Camille Serme in the previous round but no signs of fatigue as she pounced on any loose drops from David to claim an victory. “It was very special to beat Nicol 3-0 and it was one of the best things that is ever going to happen to me,” said El Sherbini.
At the men’s draw defending champion Mohamed Elshorbagy moved through to the final after a commanding 4-games victory (11-9, 11-6, 3-11, 11-7) over Frenchman Mathieu Castagnet. Castagnet is a great competitor. He’s been making so much progress lately and has made it into the top eight and then played in his first ever World Series final. He is an inspiration to all players on how they should work hard in their career because he has worked so hard.” said Elshorbagy.
Last year’s runner up Nick Matthew will meet the World No.1 in the final after a serious injury to his semi-final opponent, World Champion Gregory Gaultier, handed the Englishman the win. At the score level at 3-3 in the 1st game, Gaultier rolled his ankle painfully after contact with Matthew and was carried off the court in real distress. “The match had barely got going. We were feeling each other out on the first few points. My heart goes out to Greg,” said Matthew.
Results: J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions – Men’s Semi-Finals
[1] Mohamed Elshorbagy (EGY) bt [7] Mathieu Castagnet (FRA) 3-1: 11-9, 11-6, 3-11, 11-7 (49m)
[2] Nick Matthew (ENG) bt [3] Gregory Gaultier (FRA) 1-0: 3-3 ret. (14m)
Results: J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions – Women’s Semi-Finals
[10] Amanda Sobhy (USA) bt [8] Nouran Gohar (EGY) 3-0: 11-9, 11-9, 12-10 (38m)
[7] Nour El Sherbini (EGY) bt [2] Nicol David (MAS) 3-0: 11-8, 11-5, 11-6 (26m)
Final draws (head-to-heads):
[7] Nour El Sherbini (EGY) v [10] Amanda Sobhy (USA) – (2:4)
[1] Mohamed Elshorbagy (EGY) v [2] Nick Matthew (ENG) – (8:7)