Malaysian squash queen and world No.1 Nicol David (centre) posing for a picture with her fans during the CIMB Group’s client appreciation event in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday. - SAMUEL ONG/ The STAR
PETALING JAYA: Nicol David rules world squash, but it would not have been possible without Liz Irving.
The world No. 1 paid tribute to the Australian coach at the CIMB Group’s client appreciation event in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday to celebrate her achievement as the longest-reigning world No.1.
In February, Nicol cemented herself as the longest-reigning world No.1, surpassing New Zealander Susan Devoy’s record of 105 months between 1984-1993.
This month, Nicol is in her 108th month as the supreme player in the world.
“Liz basically transformed my whole squash game to a whole different level to the consistency that I have right now. I wouldn’t be where I am without her.
“When I moved to Amsterdam 12 years ago, we had to start from zero. I had to build my technique and a strong base that I could build on in the future,” said Nicol.
“Liz also understands my needs. She finds all the right people to come and work with me as a team.
“I’ve even gone to Melbourne a few times to work with Sarah Fitz-Gerald and Vicki Cardwell (former world No. 1 and world champions of Australia) because she has faith that they can give me that extra input in my game.
“She’s not possessive over her players. She’s open to feedback from other coaches and that’s very rare in coaches.
“I’m really pleased that she still wants to stay with me for the last 12 years,” she laughed.
Under Irving, Nicol has ticked off every record possible in her sport.
To date, she has won 79 titles, including eight world and five British Open crowns. On top of that, she has two Commonwealth Games golds, six Asian Games golds as well as being a three-time World Games gold medallist.
Despite spending 15 years on Tour, Nicol is still hungry for more success.
She said: “I am determined. In anything I do, I’m determined to do it well, and to win.”
And if anything, Nicol believes her best is yet to come, which surely is not comforting to her rivals.
Next up for Nicol will be to defend her British Open title from May 11-17.
Before that, she will take part in the Asian Individual Championships in Kuwait from May 1-5.
“I’m probably at my peak years. And I’m very excited to see how that goes. I know it’s strange to hear that.
“I’m probably at my peak years. And I’m very excited to see how that goes. I know it’s strange to hear that.
“But I think my best squash is still ahead of me.
“I think there is a glimpse of it here and there. I am so excited. I need to build the consistency and mental aspect and make it come as one all the time.
“So, there is definitely a lot more to come,” said Nicol.
