Peru’s Diego Elias was crowned champion of the 2026 El Gouna International Squash Open after a commanding straight-sets victory over Egypt’s rising star Mohamed Zakaria in the final. Elias controlled the match from the outset, sealing the win with a dominant performance that highlighted the gap in experience and match tempo between the two players.

The title capped an impressive run for Elias, particularly following his semi-final victory over World No.1 Mostafa Asal in a dramatic five-game encounter that featured several pivotal moments.

Officiating Controversy Sparks Official Response

The semi-final did not pass without incident, as several refereeing decisions sparked widespread debate, particularly at crucial stages of the match that ultimately saw Asal eliminated.

In response, the Egyptian Squash Federation issued an official statement expressing full support for Asal, stating that certain officiating decisions had an impact on both the flow and outcome of the match.

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The federation emphasized its commitment to defending its players’ rights, stressing that it will not tolerate any actions that compromise fairness or equal competition, and confirmed it will take the necessary steps in coordination with relevant authorities.

End of a Tournament, Start of a Debate

These developments underline the intensity of competition at the highest level of squash, where matches are not only defined by on-court performance, but also by how key moments are managed.

With Elias going on to claim the title, the semi-final controversy remains a talking point, particularly given its connection to the exit of the world’s top-ranked player.

Ultimately, the incident reopens broader questions about the role of officiating in major tournaments, and how fine margins can shape both matches and entire competitions.