The Pharaohs Racketlon Open 2026 is picking up steam very nicely!
It is the first international tournament to be held in Egypt and indeed North Africa (South Africa recently hosted a very successful international tournament) – and it will be very interesting to see the quality of the players in what is a powerhouse in the world of squash.
Egypt has produced more squash world champions than any other countries, while tennis and table tennis are also popular sports there.
The tournament already has 38 players entered, which is very promising for a first-time event and a Challenger, especially considering that 26 Egyptians are keen enough to have entered already (credit also to the organisers for great early planning and marketing).
Two are confident enough to have entered the Men’s Elite, while eight of the ten players currently in the Men’s B advanced category are Egyptians.
Among the international players are Duncan Stahl, Mandrin Mouchet, Mollie Patterson, Graham King, Andreas Kotala, and a cameo/return appearance for long-time top 10/top 5 player Dan Busby!
Graham King, who has organised and or played in tournaments in 30 different countries, says, “I am really looking forward to playing Racketlon for the first time in Egypt. Not only is it THE squash Mecca, but the venue looks great, and the organisational team are so enthusiastic and friendly!”
The venue, Maadi Club, is situated in one of Cairo’s greenest and most elegant districts and has modern facilities and a sporting tradition of over a century, integral to Egypt’s amazing squash culture in particular. Amr Shabana, Ahmad Barada, Omar Mosaad, Raneem El Welily are some of the top squash pros to have learnt squash/trained there.
It is not only shaping up to be a great maiden tournament on court, but off court too. The tournament organisers have done a brilliant job offering players seven different sightseeing packages, including to the Pyramids of Giza, top museums, Salah El-Din Citadel (Cairo’s iconic Islamic fortress), a river cruise, and a tour of the historic medieval streets in the vibrant heart of Cairo.
A lot of thought has also gone into the hotel and hospitality. There are comfortable rooms, shuttle service, and a welcome package including tournament materials, schedule, and local guide on arrival, all for just 85 euros per person per night (double room – single room upgrades available on request).
The tournament organisers state: “Cairo awaits. Experience world-class racketlon competition in one of the most historically rich cities on earth. From the courts of Maadi Club to the culture of Egypt — this is more than a tournament.”
“We welcome players of all nationalities. Whether you’re a seasoned tour player or competing internationally for the first time, the Pharaohs Racketlon Open offers professional organization, warm hospitality, and unforgettable competition.”
More information available on the website and sign up on TournamentSoftware.
