Pakistan’s emerging squash talent Ashab Irfan claimed his first major international title at the St. Louis Open 2025, defeating England’s Charlie Lee in straight sets in the final of the RC Pro Series event held in Missouri.
Irfan, 20, delivered a dominant performance to secure a 3-0 victory in just 37 minutes, with set scores of 11-7, 11-2, and 11-7.
Ranked 66th in the Professional Squash Association (PSA) World Rankings prior to the tournament, Irfan showcased exceptional precision, agility and control, leaving Lee unable to mount a challenge throughout the match.
The $15,000 PSA event drew participation from more than 30 players and marked a significant milestone in Irfan’s young career.
“This victory is a testament to Ashab’s relentless hard work, passion, and resilience,” said coach Irfan Jahanzeb Masood following the match. “We give thanks to Allah for this blessing. It’s not just a personal milestone — it’s a sign of a bright future for Pakistani squash.”
Masood confirmed that the win is expected to push Irfan into the PSA top 60, projecting a move from 66th to 57th in the rankings. The improvement could enable Irfan to qualify for higher-tier international competitions and solidify his status among the sport’s rising stars.
“We are profoundly grateful for the unwavering encouragement from Ashab’s family and fans,” Masood added. “Their belief in his potential has been a constant source of motivation throughout this journey.”
The win has also been hailed by the Pakistan Squash Federation as a major boost for the country’s prospects on the global squash circuit, with officials calling it a moment of pride for Pakistani sport.
