Squash World Championships: Coll and King named as New Zealand medal hopes

“Whether they’re going to be playing thereafter we don’t know, but for them, what a great opportunity to really showcase those two players against the very best in New Zealand and that was a major driver.”

Paul Coll is ranked No 2 in the world. Photo / Photosport

Former world champion Carol Owens, who won titles representing New Zealand and Australia, was optimistic about at least one Kiwi athlete securing silverware in 2028.

“We’ve got quite a few players that are in the top 100, but Paul’s probably our best chance and obviously it’s a big year for them with the Olympics and squash getting into the Olympics for the first time,” Owens said.

“It’s going to be really exciting and I’m sure they’ll be pumped to be in front of their home crowds.”

Joelle King has won five squash Commonwealth Games gold medals across her career. Photo / Photosport

Owens was confident that New Zealand could secure a medal at the 2028 Olympics too.

“Joelle and Paul are our big hopes for Olympic medals, so at least we’ve got some people up there and for the first time being in the Olympics, the hype just around having squash in the Olympics alone is huge for our sport and huge for our squash community here in New Zealand.”

Joelle King has been tipped for success in front of a home crowd at the 2028 World Championships. Photo / Photosport

Dowson also told the Herald what he expected of the athletes in Los Angeles.

“There’s definitely a goal in bringing home some silverware or medals at LA 2028, without a doubt.”

The New Zealand International Convention Centre in central Auckland will play host to the World Championships.

Paul Coll’s recent tournament victories include London Classic and the New Zealand, Australian and British Opens. Photo / Photosport

The event will run from February 19-27, 2028.