Round Two Evening : ElShorbagy Breaks Men’s All-Time Appearances Record

“I feel lucky and blessed to have that record and to be able to keep my body healthy over the years,” said ElShorbagy afterwards.

“I’ve never missed a World Champs, so I’ve been very blessed with my career. It’s good to break that record whilst you win as well. I didn’t know about it, to be honest, but Greg is one of the greats of the game, he has a lot of records to his name. I’m one of them that has inspired others, but they have also inspired me.

“I’m happy to win in three. He’s obviously a very talented and unique player that will be there for so many years. It’s something that we both should be proud of, that I can play at that level at my age, and he can play at that level at his age. We’re going to see much more of him on TV, I’m sure”

“Rapha is an amazing player and very skilful,” Asal said. “It’s always enjoyable to step on court with him. I needed to be relaxed this court, you need to be focused on your goals to be World No.1.

“We’re only in the second round and if it [the trophy] doesn’t come this year, it will come soon, for sure. There is no pressure on me, I’m still young, and I have many years in front of me.

“Ali [Farag], Diego [Elias], Paul [Coll] and all of the guys are dangerous. There are amazing performances from the top 10 guys, hopefully we’ll entertain the crowd and the best player will win the trophy.”

“It was definitely a bit of a roller coaster,” said Weaver. “I was happy with how I came out, I played exactly the way I wanted to. She made some adjustments and was really attacking off of my serve. I was trying to adapt as best as I could and weather that storm, I stuck to the game plan and I didn’t panic after that third.

“Salma has been in great form and she’s had some awesome results recently. I think the last time we played was Australia, she’s always a tough opponent and I’m looking forward to being back on the glass again.

“I’m just taking it one match at a time. I’m trying to continue building on my squash and implementing the things we’ve been working on. If I can do that then hopefully the results will speak for themself, but I’m enjoying my squash.”

“I’m really enjoying being back competing and finding the fun in squash,” Sobhy said.

“I think it took my second Achilles rupture for me to really appreciate what I do. I’m having fun and I’m playing freely. We’re in for a long week and I think setting the tone from the start is crucial.

“You can’t take anyone lightly these days. Kenzy is 10 years younger than me, and any chance they get they’re going to come at you. I have to do the same and be dialled in from the start, I need to shut it down and not give them any motivation.

“I’m enjoying life, relaxing, chilling and enjoying having my support team, family and coaches here.

“I think I can win it, for sure. I go into every tournament to win it now, who cares about how tiny my calfs are or how many scars I have? My movement is great these days and I’m having fun, so I can go out there and win it, why not?”

“It was the first time I’ve played her and she’s very dangerous. I think in the first time she was maybe a bit surprised, but when she got used to things she  played better in each game, so I’m just happy I’m through.

“I love Chicago, I have amazing memories here. Three of my World Championships were won here, so it’s definitely amazing to be back here in front of the Chicago crowd. I love the court too and there are a lot of advantages to take.

“People think this court won’t suit my game, but I feel very comfortable on it. I’m hitting my targets and hopefully it keeps working like this.”