31-Jul-08:
Whitey heads back to Amsterdam

Tournament organizers Next Events have secured another main attraction for the Forexx Dutch Open Squash 2008, which will take place from 2-7 September 2008 in the renowned Frans Otten Stadion in Amsterdam.

Former world number 1 John White has confirmed his participation in the PSA 3 star event, where he will be joined by world number 7 Nick Matthew and 3-time Dutch champion Laurens Jan Anjema. The ‘hardhitter’, whose shots reach an astonishing speed of 275 kilometers an hour (172mph), is widely regarded as the most spectacular player on the international men’s circuit.

The 35-year old Scotsman, originally born in Australia, is nearing the end of his illustrious career. The current world number 19 has only competed in 7 events over the last 12 months, but has shown that he can still compete with the best. In April White claimed the title during the Irish Open 2008 beating Malaysian Mohammed Azlan Iskandar in a 5-game final. White also reached the semi finals of the 2008 Davenport Professional Squash Championships and the Mamut English Open 2008 as well as securing quarter final berths in last year’s Endurance World Open in Bermuda and the Bear Sterns Tournament of Champions 2008.

For the American-based White, who headed the World Rankings for a few months in 2004, the Forexx Dutch Open Squash 2008 is an ideal opportunity to return to the country where he spent several years in the nineties. “I am really looking forward to returning to the Netherlands, because I have spent a couple of great years there. The Forexx Dutch Open is not only a great event, but it also gives me the chance to see my Dutch squash friends again,” said the father of 4 children.

Naturally organizers Next Events are also very pleased with the commitment of White. According to promoter Tommy Berden the Scot is a tremendous addition to the tournament: “John is without doubt still one of the most spectacular and entertaining players in the world. Not many players can combine immense power with great touch like he does. His style of play is unique and with his constant attacks he is sure to entertain our crowds. We are very happy that he has decided to come and participate in the Forexx Dutch Open in early September.”

Also the world’s best women will head to Amsterdam next month. World number 1 Nicol David, Dutch ace Natalie Grinham (2) and reigning World Champion Rachael Grinham have already confirmed their participation in the Women’s International Squash Players Association (WISPA) Gold championship in the Dutch capital, which has a total prize fund of US $53,500.

Next week the final lineup will be announced. Closing deadline for entries is Tuesday August 5th.