Pakistan’s former world champion Jansher Khan has been inducted into the Professional Squash Association (PSA) Hall of Fame.
Along with the legendary squash player, Malaysian player Nicole David was honored as the newest member of the PSA Hall of Fame, during a special induction evening at the Hong Kong Football Club on Sunday.
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 figures, past and present.
It is noteworthy that the only male players inducted into the Hall of Fame are from Pakistan. The first and second recruits were Jahangir Khan and New Zealander Susan Devoy.
Pakistani star Jansher has won eight World Open titles and six British Open titles.
He played over 118 finals matches in his professional career and won a record 99 titles. He also has the honor of being world number one for 97 months throughout his career.
Jansher said he felt very happy because Hong Kong was his second home and he played in the Hong Kong Open for many years and won eight Hong Kong Open tournaments.
“So Hong Kong is really the best place for me. I’m very happy to come to Hong Kong (and) see my old friends. It’s a great honor to receive this award,” he added.
On this occasion, Alex Goff, CEO of PSA, said: “Nicole and Jansher are two of the most iconic figures in squash history, and have left a lasting legacy in the sport.
“Nicole has inspired so many squash players – in Malaysia and around the world – and her record of nine consecutive years at the top of the world rankings will certainly never be improved. She is a fantastic ambassador for the sport and it was great to see her honored with the title of Deputy Head of Delegation at the tournament. The Paris 2024 Olympic Games this summer.
“Like Nicole, Jansher’s name will forever be associated with squash and the records he has amassed in the men’s game are nothing short of amazing. We are delighted to have had the opportunity to celebrate both players.”
Introducing Khan, men’s world number one Ali Farag said: “It’s a really special moment for me to stand here as we honor, in my opinion and in the opinion of a lot of people, the greatest squash player of all time: Jansher Khan.
“Mr. Jansher, from me and from everyone here in this room and from everyone in the squash world and beyond, we would really like to thank you for so many reasons.
“I have been blessed with many things throughout my squash journey, but being compared to you is definitely one of the greatest honors of my career.
“Tonight, we celebrate not only your victories, but the legacy you built and left behind.”
Faraj added his thanks and congratulations to Cancer for his achievements on the field, for inspiring generations of future players, for showing “poetry in motion” to the world, and for transcending sports.