Willstrop wins Squash Player’s Player of the Month
award
England’s
James Willstrop has been named Squash Player’s Male Player of the
Month for September, after being crowned European champion for the
first time in August.
The 34-year-old second seed denied French favourite Greg Gaultier a
10th continental title in his 13th consecutive final with a dramatic
7-11, 11-8, 11-8, 2-11, 11-8 victory in 68 minutes.
“That was a brutal match at times,” said Willstrop after the pair’s
42nd meeting. “It’s hard to believe we’ve been playing each other
like that for so long!
“The third [game] was crucial. Greg came back, but he still has some
demons in there. I’m glad I was able to come out on top in the
fifth. Greg is a great champion, and I’m proud to beat him.”
Willstrop, who marked his first appearance in the revamped event
since 2004 by becoming England’s first male European champion,
dedicated his success to father and coach Malcolm.
“A special thanks to Malcolm,” he said. “For all he’s done for me
over the years, this one is for you!”
