On Monday, the World Junior Squash Championships 2025 kicked off with the participation of more than 200 players.
Among the anticipated teams to participate in the tournament is the US squash national team due to their impressive performance.
Therefore, the team has a lot of thoughts and ambitions to share before the tournament.
The US delegation, led by Coach Karim Ibrahim, Director of U.S. Junior National Teams, and Coach Nick Taylor, arrives not only to compete but to make a statement as the American junior squash is on the rise, and this generation is ready to challenge the global elite.
Coach Karim Ibrahim, who has been at the helm of U.S. Squash's junior development for the past three years, believes this year’s squad reflects a culture of consistency, professionalism, and belief.
“What we’ve worked hard to instil is a long-term mindset,” Ibrahim shared. “This isn’t just about showing up to win a single match—it’s about building athletes who can compete internationally, sustain performance, and lead the next generation.”
Ibrahim also plays a pivotal role at the Specter Center, the national training hub in Philadelphia, where many of the juniors have been sharpening their skills year-round.
Alongside him is veteran coach Nick Taylor, whose strategic insight and technical experience have helped the athletes adjust to international play styles.
One of the standout athletes on the team is Alexander Dartnell, who earlier this year made waves by reaching the final of the 2025 British Junior Open, one of the most competitive junior tournaments in the world.
Reflecting on that journey, Alexander Dartnell described how it marked a turning point in his career.
“The British Open was a huge learning curve,” Dartnell explained. “The first time I played there, I was overwhelmed. Back home I was used to the JCTs, but this was a whole different level—players from all over the world fighting to win.”
In that first British Open appearance two years ago, Dartnell finished in fourth place, but it lit a fire in him.
“That’s when I realized I wasn’t that far off. I belonged on this stage,” he said. “Since then, I committed fully to training, worked on every weakness, and kept the same mentality—one match at a time.”
Asked about competing in Cairo—a city known for its passionate squash fans and legendary champions— he acknowledged the excitement and pressure.
“Meeting guys like Mohamed Zakaria and Amin Orfi—those are names that inspire you,” he said. “You see their discipline, their intensity, and you want to rise to that level. Being in Egypt, playing in front of squash-loving crowds—it’s electric.”
Women's team captain Alex Jaffe, representing the girls’ squad, spoke candidly about the mental preparation required to compete at this level, especially in Egypt.
“It’s not just physical—it’s emotional, it’s mental,” Jaffe said. “You train for years to get here, but the pressure hits differently when you’re in a country like Egypt, where squash is massive and the atmosphere is intense.”
Jaffe emphasized how vital long-term goals have been for her journey.
“Making this team was my goal from the start of the season. I built everything around that. Training, recovery, mindset—all of it,” she explained. “When the matches go into hour two, and the fans are loud, you have to be able to lock in mentally and trust your preparation.”
While the US team is aiming for strong results, the focus isn’t solely on podium finishes. According to Ibrahim, this year’s championship is also about positioning U.S. juniors as serious contenders and laying a foundation for future excellence.
“It’s about sending a message: American players can compete at the highest levels,” he said. “We may come from a system that’s still developing compared to the traditional squash countries, but the talent, drive, and work ethic are absolutely there.”
The group stages are now underway at the Wadi Degla Club in Cairo, with players competing in both individual and team draws. Over the next week, the world will watch as these young athletes—some just 16 or 17—test themselves against the best juniors the sport has to offer.
For Dartnell, Jaffe, and the entire U.S. squad, this championship is more than a competition—it’s a milestone in a larger journey toward elite performance and global recognition.
On her side, US Embassy Spokesperson Gina Cabrera’s said that the tournament "It’s a wonderful opportunity to recognize the incredible talent and dedication of the young athletes representing both the United States and Egypt. Squash is one of Egypt’s favorite sports, and it plays an important role in building connections and strengthening the friendship between our two countries."
She added: "This year’s championship feels even more special as we look forward to squash's historic debut at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. For the first time ever, this exciting and globally respected sport will be featured at the Olympic Games, giving athletes from Egypt, the U.S., and around the world a chance to shine on the biggest stage."
"Both the U.S. and Egyptian junior teams have shown outstanding skill and determination, and their participation here is a great example of the strong partnership between our nations. We celebrate what they’ve achieved so far and can’t wait to see the memorable moments they’ll create on the court. Events like this truly remind us how sports bring people together and create lasting friendships."
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