Egyptian Squash Prodigy Amina Orfi Makes History as Youngest Women's World #1 at Age 19

Egyptian squash prodigy Amina Orfi has cemented her place in history by ascending to the World #1 ranking in women’s squash at the remarkably young age of 19. Orfi secured the top position following a dramatic 3-2 victory in the final of the QTerminals Qatar Classic against fellow compatriot Hania al-Hammamy, bringing her points total to 2,109 and successfully overtaking the previous standings leader.

As both the reigning World Champion and a four-time World Junior Champion, Orfi triumphed through a tense and demanding fifth-game decider. In an interview with Al-Ahram, Orfi reflected on the fierce intensity of the final match and stated her firm determination to defend her new ranking as she looks ahead to pursuing gold at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

The tournament featured numerous dramatic developments, ranging from unexpected upsets to grueling matches. During the semifinal runs, Orfi delivered a dominant 3-0 sweep against America’s Olivia Weaver, while Hania al-Hammamy outlasted Malaysia’s world #5 Sivasangari Subramaniam 3-2 in a punishing marathon encounter.

Early rounds also delivered notable surprises, most notably when eight-time World Champion Nour al-Sherbini suffered a 1-3 defeat at the hands of Malaysia’s Delia Arnold. Meanwhile, tournament play was further impacted by withdrawals, including former World #1 Nouran Gohar—who was making her tour comeback after a two-year maternity break—and Belgium’s Tinne Gilis, both bowing out during the quarterfinal stage.