World Squash, PSA, US Squash react on draws for LA28

LONDON: World Squash, PSA and US Squash are looking forward to squash’s Olympic debut at the LA28 Olympic Games while also acknowledging the recent decision of the International Olympic Committee Executive Board (IOC EB) to confirm the draw sizes for the squash event programme.

This confirmation follows an extensive review by the IOC’s Olympic Programme Commission of the overall sports programme and athlete quotas aimed at delivering a cost-effective Games. As a result, squash’s previously announced player numbers have been reduced from 32 to 16 per gender. Similarly, the four other additional sports proposed by the LA28 Organising Committee have been affected with all their events limited to six teams.

With this final draw size, World Squash – together with its partners – will have the opportunity to propose a preferred qualification process in line with the IOC’s qualification principles. The IOC Executive Board is not expected to approve the qualification process for all sports until late 2025 or early 2026.

A concerted and coordinated effort is being made to ensure that squash enjoys a spectacular Olympic Games debut in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, the Universal Studios Lot in Los Angeles, CA, has been designated as squash’s venue for the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028 (LA28).

World Squash President Zena Wooldridge said: “On behalf of the global squash community, I would like to thank the teams from the IOC, LA28 and NBCUniversal for their brilliant creative vision in proposing squash for what will surely be one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world.”

PSA CEO Alex Gough said: “Squash has always prided itself on being played in remarkable, iconic locations. By combining its world-class facilities, entertainment expertise, and strategic location, the Universal Studios Lot promises to create an unforgettable Olympic experience for our players, fans, and the sport. We are thrilled to be part of this historic moment and look forward to welcoming fans from across the globe to experience squash in such a unique and inspiring setting.” —