The ATCO World Series Finals certainly kicked the New Year off in style, garnering some of most extensive mainstream coverage achieved and helping to push the Olympic Bid. In addition the semis & finals went out Live! on SKY Sports and Eurosport to popular acclaim.
On court it was the Prince of Egypt & Princess of Malaysia that once again ruled supreme. Amr Shabana was in imperious form throughout to defend his title, while Nicol David bounced back from a first day loss in the pools to gain revenge over Laura Massaro and lift the WSA title.
A couple of weeks later all eyes turned to Grand Central Terminus in New York, where the JP Morgan Tournament of Champions wowed spectators and commuters alike. Back from injury Ramy Ashour recovered from two games down to beat Greg Gaultier in a match featuring some stunning skills including this one.
Back in the UK Nick Matthew retained his British Nationals, while Alison Waters squeezed past Laura Massaro to return to the top of the podium.
The National Treasure that is the Allam British Open will take centre stage in May. Taking place on the pitch of the KC Stadium in Hull all of the World’s greatest players will converge to try and win this prestigious title. Soon after the Men will then gather to fight out for the World Team Championships in France with Egypt hot favourites but England with some unfinished business after Paderborn last time around.