KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Nicol David, regarded as one of the greatest squash players of all time, was inducted into the PSA Hall of Fame during a special ceremony at the Hong Kong Football Club today.
The event, held on the eve of the Hong Kong Squash Open, also recognised Pakistan legend Jansher Khan.
Nicol and Jansher joined inaugural inductees Susan Devoy and Jahangir Khan, as the PSA continues to celebrate squash's most iconic figures.
Nicol's remarkable career includes an unprecedented eight World Championship titles and a record-breaking 108-month reign as world No.1.
Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia director Major (rtd) S. Maniam said the national body was happy and proud that Nicol has been inducted into the PSA Hall of Fame.
"It's an honour to Nicol who has been active on and off the court. She continues to support squash and has been active by doing the Nicol David Organisation programmes.
"I have known her personally since she was young and she has done the country proud by winning a number of major titles.
"Nicol is a humble and down to earth person who always smiles. She is a lovable person who has brought fresh hopes to squash," said Maniam.
National coach Andrew Cross said Nicol deserves the induction for her achievements by winning the most world titles (eight) by any women's player.
"Nicol is also a great ambassador for squash for her contributions to the sport," he added.
Former national player Low Wee Wern, who had played alongside Nicol and is now the national coach of
Philippines, said: "I'm happy for her and she thoroughly deserves it after all the years of achievement on court and how she has been a role model to many players and many more to come in the future."