Refaay and Sohayla clinch PSA Challenger Tour titles in Kolkata

Kolkata hosted an encouraging week of professional squash as Refaay and Sohayla won their respective titles at the PSA Challenger Tour event, underlining the depth of talent on the circuit and the growing footprint of the sport in India.

Refaay rallies to a confident final win In the men’s final, third seed Refaay showcased composure and tactical clarity to overcome top seed and compatriot Mohamed Gohar in four games. After dropping the opening game 6-11, Refaay responded with a measured shift in approach, taking the next three games 11-7, 11-7, 11-4 to secure the title.

The scoreline reflected a classic momentum swing: early advantage for the top seed, followed by sustained control from the challenger who adjusted well under pressure. Refaay’s ability to steady the match after the first game stood out—tightening up the rallies, improving his margins, and building points patiently rather than rushing winners. Winning consecutive 11-7 games also highlighted consistency at key moments, often the difference between finalists at this level.

For a Challenger Tour event, such matches offer valuable learning for players and fans alike: the importance of staying present after a slow start, and the rewards of adapting mid-match. Refaay’s finish—an emphatic 11-4 in the fourth—suggested he found a rhythm and maintained it all the way to the trophy.

Sohayla adds a bright note to the Kolkata week Alongside the men’s champion, Sohayla lifted the title in her category, making it a double success story from Kolkata. While every tournament brings its own set of pressures—travel, match scheduling, and the grind of multiple rounds—winning on the PSA Challenger circuit is a meaningful marker of consistency and confidence.

The presence of both champions at the same event also points to the competitive ecosystem around the PSA Challenger Tour, where emerging and established players gain ranking opportunities, match practice, and exposure. For spectators, such tournaments provide a close-up view of the sport’s technical demands: sharp movement, disciplined shot selection, and the ability to manage long rallies.

Kolkata’s role as host is equally significant. Regular professional events help build local interest, inspire younger players, and strengthen the broader sports calendar. When international-level tournaments are staged smoothly, they also create room for partnerships—between organisers, sponsors, venues, coaches, and community programmes—supporting the sport’s long-term growth.

Why it matters A well-run PSA Challenger Tour event in Kolkata, capped by decisive title wins for Refaay and Sohayla, reinforces India’s promise as a strong host for global squash and keeps the spotlight on competitive, high-quality sport that can inspire the next generation.