Damian Groenewald takes valuable lessons from Assore Series

The series has given South African players a platform to compete against international opponents, including some of Egypt’s top talent. 

The Assore Joburg Open will take place at Parkview Squash Centre in Johannesburg from 20-24 October and will be the final event of the Assore Series this year. 

Groenewald expects a fierce contest in the men’s draw, particularly with Egyptian Mohamed Sharaf as the top seed.

“The Assore Series has been amazing this year. The exposure we get from playing against more international players, especially the Egyptians, has been so good for us,” said Groenewald.

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“I think they have realised this is a good opportunity to collect points, but for us it is such a good experience playing against them. I have been knocked out by two Egyptians, and every time I play against them, I learn something different that I can apply to my game. They are so good in the big points, they know how to win them and stay in a rally when it gets tight. They are very gritty and force errors out of you.”

The 23-year-old is among the top eight seeds in the men's draw, having moved up one spot from ninth where he was seeded at the previous tournament. He has welcomed the opportunity to improve his position in the PSA rankings.

“It is still a big opportunity for the South Africans to proceed further in the draw. It is a very strong field, but I am up for the battle and will be ready mentally and physically.”

Groenewald enters this competition on the back of winning the Western Province Open, and says he is pleased with his current form. 

“I am happy with my form and looking forward to representing South Africa again at PSA level. I will do it to the best of my ability,” he added. 

Picture credits: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images