The Milwaukee Hong Kong Open, taking place from December 1st to 7th, is one of the most prestigious tournaments of the season on the PSA Platinum circuit. It represents a major challenge for the players: not only does it offer significant prize money, but the points it awards are crucial for the world ranking. The 2025 edition is marked by continued Egyptian dominance and some pleasant surprises.

The Stakes of the Platinum Tournament

Platinum category tournaments (like the Hong Kong Open) are mandatory for the best players and often define the hierarchy at the end of the year.

• Ranking Race: The race for points for the PSA World Tour Finals (at the end of the season) is intense. Every victory in a Platinum event brings players closer to qualification.

• Egyptian Dominance: World squash remains largely dominated by Egyptian athletes. In both the men's and women's draws, the top seeds are mainly from this country, such as Mostafa Asal, Ali Farag, and Hania El Hammamy.

The Headliners and Expected Showdowns

As of the date of this article, attention is focused on the confrontations that will determine the semi-finals.

Men's Draw:

• The Fight for the Top: Mostafa Asal and Ali Farag, both former World No. 1s, are looking to win to consolidate their position or reclaim the top spot.

• The Outsiders: New Zealander Paul Coll and Peruvian Diego Elias are always serious threats and are often capable of shaking up the Egyptian hierarchy.

Women's Draw:

• The El Hammamy vs. Gohar Battle: Hania El Hammamy (the new World No. 1) and Nouran Gohar, two players with opposing styles, are often predicted for a final showdown. Their matches are legendary for their physical intensity and tactical aggression.

• The Young Guard: Emerging talents continue to make breakthroughs and could create a surprise in the quarter-finals.

The Role of the Crowd and the Glass Court

The Hong Kong Open is famous for its atmosphere and the quality of its facilities.

• A Showcase in Asia: The event takes place on a glass court erected in a public location in Hong Kong, offering maximum visibility and excellent televised spectacle. This is a key point for the global image of squash.

• Impact on the Game: Glass courts, often installed in open or semi-open locations, can be sensitive to temperature changes, which influences the behaviour of the ball (more or less lively) and, consequently, the players' strategy.

Conclusion: A Turning Point in the Season

The Milwaukee Hong Kong Open is more than just a tournament; it is a barometer of the athletes' form as the end of the year approaches. The results of this week will clearly outline the favorites for the major end-of-season finals and give an indication of who will finish the year at the top of the world ranking. The final rounds must be closely followed to witness the best of current squash.