3-Minute Rally! A Conversation with Wael El Hindi

Rob White: Just spoke with Alister about his move to New York City. You made the move some time ago yourself.

Wael El Hindi: Well, as you can see, squash is growing here. It’s on the rise. That’s why a lot of pros have moved here. I think there’s a benefit economically to coming here. And hopefully we can continue to develop the juniors here – you know, the future looks good for American squash - we have Amanda Sobhy doing great, the first American to win a world championship. And the path is changing now- it’s not just about going to good colleges – they kids are thinking world championships and trying to take squash to the next level here in the States.

RW: You do a little coaching, right?

WEH: I coach a bit when I’m not on the tour. But I tell you, a couple of weeks ago, I was at the US Junior Open. 750 juniors – the biggest junior tournament in the world! This shows you how passionate squash has become and how big it’s going to be going forward. And I believe it’s important – if we truly want to get squash into the Olympics- that it continues to grow here in the States.

RW: What do you think of the crowd’s energy at the Tournament this year?

WEH: NYC has the best energy anywhere in the world! The crowd- the people- aaah! The audience here gives the player 25-30% more energy to play than what you have in any other place in the world! It’s just by them being so very into it – they stand up and roar – this is what makes the Tournament of Champions tournament so special and why everybody wants to come and play here!

RW: Back briefly to your move to the States - did you get grief from your fellow Egyptians after the move?

WEH: No grief, but some thought it’d be hard because there are fewer training partners here. We have Alister here now – unfortunately, we had to play each other the 2^nd round and he won. But we’re still friends! (laughter) I’m very happy he made the move, and of course we’ll be training partners. And hopefully more players will make the move to come here as well!

RW: I assume the move will make travel easier in some respects.

WEH: Yes, it’s so easy to travel from New York City. Sometimes, at the beginning of the season starting in Hong Kong and Ausralia, it can be a little far. But as you can see now, the other players have to travel here, take a cab, stay in a hotel - I just take the subway! (laughter) And sleep in my own bed!

RW: It’s been a pleasure, Wael! Best of luck going forward!

WEH: Thanks, Rob!