PSA Squash 2021: Mostafa Asal and Sketchy Movement?

[@ianreid4811]

Thank you for bringing attention to this. Let’s not mince words here, Asal is gaining a huge unfair (ie it contravenes the rules of squash) advantage by moving in this way

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Ian. He definitely does gain an unfair advantage by moving the way he does. Hopefully he sees the value in playing a 'cleaner' game sooner rather than later. All the best, - Ahad

[@muneebi8273]

This video should an educational necessity for anyone who wants to be a referee

[@ARProformance]

Thank you Muneeb, I appreciate your kind support 🙏🏼 - Ahad

[@shishir1969]

There are some players who think they own the right to get to the T, irrespective of how or where they have played the ball. Could this be the heart of the matter? Great video this one

[@ARProformance]

Thank you Shishir 🙏🏼 What you've mentioned could be it. Someone else commented suggesting that it could be a win at all costs mentality. That could also certainly be part of the issue. Either way, I hope that he finds the motivation and support to clean it up! - Ahad

[@hashkenhabib]

The problem is Asal's entourage - Father, team, etc. I know for a fact that they have the win at all cost mentality. I also know for a fact that some respectable people on tour have had the talk 1 on 1 with Asal and he's aware of the perception and trying to change. He looks up to football players, and has all of these football-ey antics. He does not realize yet that he can be the next Ashour, the next star kids look up to. It's up to him what legacy he will build, because he will build one. He could be squash's next great Ambassador. *Could*.

[@ARProformance]

Thank you for this insightful comment Galinette. I'd love to know where / how you know about the specific details you've mentioned? Your point about looking up to football players seems spot on. His antics certainly reflect this. Your point about legacy is a critical one. I hope that he corrects his path, and creates the wonderful legacy that he is capable of! - Ahad

[@hashkenhabib]

​@@ARProformance I know personally a few people on tour and in the crew. Lots of chatter happens around the time Asal plays. I also hope he course corrects and goes on to be an Ambassador for squash. Being so good so young, and doing something different on court to the other players, he's got Ashour vibes. Let's hope for the best : body holds up, head matures.

[@brianmcdonald7233]

Terrific breakdown. Your analysis is superb. Thanks for putting this together.

[@ARProformance]

Thank you Brian 🙏🏼 I appreciate your support, - Ahad

[@pascualreyes5060]

Hi Ahad, you are right! I also noticed Asal's little obstructions. I think refs should call them and punish them accordingly. Well done Ahad, keep it up!

[@ARProformance]

Thank you Pascual. If the refs begin warning him immediately, I imagine that it will dissuade him from engaging in the behaviour! Fingers crossed that it gets cleaner sooner rather than later! - Ahad

[@altaroxllc3184]

@@ARProformance don't just warn him, put teeth in it with a Stroke decision and add some words of guidance as to why the blocking player is being penalized. That will send the message. If the ref tolerates it, the blockfest continues.

[@watching99134]

"I find this a little annoying--sorry I'm getting very heated." --a Canadian

[@ARProformance]

Hahahahaha

[@jessematthews9338]

As always, amazing analysis! Squash is a unique racket sport which is truly based on sportsmenship as both players are in such close contact with one another. So if a player does not provide the respect required for this unique sport the ref needs to be the gate keeper and step in to create this environment. Easily said and done in hine sight as it is hard to make calls on the spot; but for games played by disrepectful players the ref needs to be prepared to make those calls or the sportsmanship of squash will decline.

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for sharing Jesse. You're spot on re. the referee's needing to step in and set the foundations of acceptable and unacceptable movement from the get go. It would help clear up a lot! Some are good at doing this, and others aren't. It isn't easy because it takes a strong personality (lots of pressure from players, being in the spot light, fear of getting it wrong, etc.). I appreciate your continued support, - Ahad

[@StevenCrews]

Great analysis. Asal is a very talented player and I think he could be world number 1 at some point in the future (potentially, near future). However, I, personally, am not a fan of his. I watch his matches but cheer for his opponent every time. Sportsmanship and attitude aren't easy to change unless he has a desire to change... Ali Farag is the antithesis of Asal. Ali is an incredible talent with a high degree of sportsmanship who plays with respect for the game and his opponents. I thought it was very interesting that you used the game between the 2 of them to identify Asal's movement.

[@davidjousse5993]

Thank you for your video. As I saw this match through the live feed, I always had the impression that very often the first step of Asal was towards Farag, but at real speed it was not always obvious. Thank you for making this very clear in a constructive and pedagogical manner with a very measured tone. It makes it about squash and the way we want to teach it,

[@ARProformance]

My pleasure. Thank you for watching David 🙏🏼 - Ahad

[@viv539]

Great explaination. This reminds me of kids who wants to win always(like i used to be). Not doing anything technically wrong but after a while nobody wants to play with them.

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for the comment. Absolutely right. It's not enjoyable for anyone, and eventually, one's actions come to bite them in the rear end. Hopefully Asal figures things out soon and he can realize his potential! - Ahad

[@karldubois1917]

Well done with the videos analysis and editing. Cant believe some comments here are still denying the actual tactic enlightened with visual proofs. First, i'd like to say it seems pretty impossible to me that refs can eventually call this out in the heat of the moment. The game is way too fast, the ref has to be following the ball as well as both players, and these "unfair" movements are extremely subtle. To me, the way to prevent this tactic from now on is for the PSA governing body to fine the players after scrutinious video analysis, and, if behavior doesnt change, the player needs to be suspended for a period of time or number of tournaments. If playing squash is indeed their goal, they will try and adjust. Also, PSA could set up some kind of sensibilisation program mandatory for those players. Because let's be honest, it is so "anquered" in his mind, his muscle memory, etc, it just cannot change overnight, much less inbeetween games or rallies. I am pretty convinced the reason why he moved correctly to the T in the last video is because they're in the fifth game and he must be so mentally exhausted he actually forgot to apply the blocking tactic at that time. I feel it must be even more mentally demanding to make sure you subtly move path towards your opponent every time you have the opportunity, compared to just clearing and avoiding all contact. So to me, it has to be taken seriously by PSA and/or even WSF, otherwise it'll get ugly, not just at their level, but everyone is now seeing he is getting away with it, so why shouldnt they also use it?

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for the detailed and well thought out suggestions! You're right in that it is very tricky to see all of our in real time, but the referees are quite experienced, and the more obvious movements should definitely be called out (and they are starting to). The post match analysis is very helpful, but logistically so challenging since the financial resources are limited in squash. Hopefully bringing awareness to the issue through videos like these will help mitigate the issue moving forward. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and support! - Ahad

[@cookesam6]

Ending on a good note was a very good idea, showing what the correct motion should be, showing that asal is very capable of playing fairly. Appreciate your video AR, subscribed!

[@ARProformance]

Thank you for watching and subscribing. I hope that you enjoy the other videos as well. All the best, - Ahad

[@szookk]

We didn't knew how much we needed this video.

[@ARProformance]

Thank you very much Pawel. I hope that it clarified some things that are difficult to see in real time. - Ahad

[@steverogers7473]

Another superb analysis, I commend you for obvious huge amount of time it must take you to compile all the clips required to make these videos. I also totally agree with your analysis, personally I interpret many of Asal's movements to be gamesmanship at best and downright cheating at worst. He is in danger of gaining a reputation that will be hard to shift. He is an incredibly talented player that should concentrate on playing cleanly and being true role model for younger players, rather than the antics discussed here, and the silly faces and shirt ripping and throwing.... 😟

[@ARProformance]

Thank you Steve. You are absolutely right in that it takes a fair bit of time to create these videos! It is a passion, which is why I keep it up :) The support you (and many others) continue to provide by watching, commenting, subscribing, liking and sharing certainly helps! I agree that he is extremely talented. I hope that he learns that when one is in a position of influence, he/she has a responsibility to do what's right. With a grounded mentor at his side, I believe that he can come around. - Ahad

[@yaboiicj94]

This is so so relevant now in terms of Mostafa Asal vs Yousif Solimon where Asal was awarded a full conduct stroke set against him for extending and leaving his back leg in Yousif's way of getting to the ball

[@ARProformance]

Absolutely. I'm working on a video highlighting several aspects of that match. I hope you enjoy it once it's complete! - Ahad

[@corgikun2579]

Hey, I'm Mostafa Asal's coach. I appreciate the in-depth video analysis you made. Congratulations friend. When we practice, we always seek contact in the plays to block the opponent, it's part of the game and it is our strategy. Deal with it. Thank you

[@delsol1967]

I hope the referees are watching this video and won't hesitate to give Asal conduct warnings/strokes when they see him do this in Court. He needs to be disciplined!

[@ARProformance]

I hope so too, although I'm sure that they're aware of his antics. It is difficulty to see it all live, when you're sitting so far back. - Ahad

[@abelheirasquash]

Excelent video! I completelly agree with you.

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for the support Marcelo 🙏🏼

[@djrocc-jamaica3527]

Man Great Video, thought I was the only one who saw this as well. The refs really need to call these kinds of movements.

[@ARProformance]

Absolutely! The refs seem to be catching on! Thanks for watching, - Ahad

[@djrocc-jamaica3527]

@@ARProformance Yes in the NG Match recently, watching recently I could see that Asal's movement needs to be cleaned up, doesn't seem like he likes to move in that "Rugby" ball shape after hitting the ball, but likes to move in Direct Lines to the T, which can interfere with the Opponent. Also though, saw some other movements which were directly contrary to the direction in which he should have been taking away from his opponents line, but they were actually through and towards his opponents line - blocking. Further his back leg sticks way out at times.

[@catherinedegannes-martin8901]

Amazing analysis.. a must view for any and all squash players and referees

[@ARProformance]

Thank you for the kind words Caroline 🙏🏼 wishing you the best, - Ahad

[@nickguest3394]

Awesome analysis Ahad!

[@ARProformance]

Thanks Nick! Was good seeing you around the club recently 👊🏼 - Ahad

[@altaroxllc3184]

At 11:36, AR does a great job of showing the difference between blocking and clearing. At 24:03, if the Ref awards a Stroke to Farag, Asal will get the message.

[@ARProformance]

Thank you for your diligent analysis and comments Altarox LLC. I'm grateful that you are getting a lot from the videos, and also sharing. All the best, - Ahad

[@FinancialFreebo]

You mentioned that his controversy may create more buzz for the sport and I think that you are very right. Why doesn't major league baseball use technology to get balls and strikes correct with every pitch? B/C the controversy and players getting ejected...etc... is money in the bank!!!

[@ARProformance]

Very true!!!

[@littleman787]

If Asal is disrespectful, then he should expect disrespectful comments. I will leave it at that.

[@muneebi8273]

You lost me at “credit to mustafa Asal for his awareness” lol. I mean yes, but this cheating and definitely unfair. No credit, only discredit. But, that said, love your videos and loved this one too. Thanks for the upload.

[@Jacob-ts4yb]

Asal needs a one year ban if he continues to intentionally block. Maybe it will teach him respect for the game

[@dangianfagna]

Two men enter, one man leave

[@us-Bahn]

The anomalies of Asal’s movement after making a shot are difficult to detect because he wears shoes of contrasting colors (always white & black for maximum contrast). It is difficult for the eye to see his two feet as moving in a consistent motion. What we see in real time is a flurry of random feet, his & his opponents. We don’t associate feet of different colors to be synchronized. So when he sweeps his lead foot back in his recovery motion he can take liberties with the path of his lead foot in order to block his opponent’s line to the ball. If both his feet were the same color the discrepancy in the movement of his blocking foot would be very noticeable in relation to his other foot. This probably went unnoticed (certainly unchallenged) in amateur squash but at the pro level the intense scrutiny of video review reveals the cheat

[@ARProformance]

In real time it truly is very difficult to see the subtleties of his movement. He is a big, strong, powerful guy, and some of the leg movements are to counter balance his power, but at the same time, some of the movements are excessive, and cause a lot of issues. The recent match with Soliman was very well refereed (against both players). It is unfortunate to see so much contact in our sport. Hopefully the trailing leg is cleaned up sooner rather than later... - Ahad

[@us-Bahn]

Yes, my friend. You did a really good job analyzing what has been frustrating so many players. I would only add that his style of footwear (shoes & socks) is not a quirky statement of fashion. There is a pre-meditated method behind the madness.

[@tyroneevans3202]

He received conduct strokes in the recent tournament which were very justified. Asal has been throwing his leg out recently to block his opponent which has created some very heavy impacts and injured Momen when they played. He ended up injuring himself in the recent tournament. After he received the strokes he then kicked his leg out at his opponent when he was hitting a winner. Very petulant.

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for sharing Tyrone. I'm working on a video to highlight some of the decisions from the recent Soliman vs. Asal match. I hope that you enjoy it once it's ready. Hopefully tomorrow or the day after. Take care, - Ahad

[@telmopeixinho4372]

Very good analysis and breakdown 👏🏻👏🏻 totally agree with your point of view. But going back to his movement don’t you think Asal should work on getting his movement to be more efficient? His a big powerful player and his type of movement takes a toll on such a big body, specially on the major tournaments where you need to reach the later stages as fresh as possible and with a “spring” on your movement

[@ARProformance]

You raise a good point Telmo. Asal is a very explosive, dynamic mover. He is definitely putting some strain on the joints, but it's really hard to say. He can definitely get a bit softer and controlled with his movement. He's young and likely feels invincible at this point in his career, so it's unlikely that he will make a change now. Presumably after a few years he'll make some adjustments. If he can harness his speed and explosiveness but manage the landings / ground contact a bit more, it will definitely add some time to his career in my opinion. - Ahad

[@telmopeixinho4372]

@@ARProformance thanks for getting back 😃

[@eoincoleman4537]

What is your opinion on why the PSA allows him to not follow the rules? Ultimately that is why he keeps playing like this. You mention at 16:50 that his antics will get him conduct strokes if he continues, but those conduct strokes never come. No one would care if Asal played like this if the rules were applied to him and he got punished for cheating. But he never does. The PSA is cultivating this behaviour.

[@ARProformance]

It's such a difficult and sensitive subject at the moment. The PSA has obviously suspended him, and they are calling out his behaviors during broadcasts. I'm assuming that they're doing it to try and nip it in the bud. On average, I find that referees are also firmer with him than other players. All that being said, our sport is so fast, referees are seated so far back, and players are very good at hiding movements, that it becomes extremely difficult to catch everything that's happening. To add to everything, other players are also (in my opinion) starting to milk things. Many times (in recent matches), Asal doesn't really do much wrong, but players are up in arms. In my opinion, they're exploiting an opportunity to get points. Unfortunately, Asal does keep doing something or the other, at some point in a match, which doesn't help his cause. In fairness, many other players block. All eyes are on Asal because he has done it excessively, and now it's following him around. Personally, I like clean, free flowing squash. I feel that all players should play the way Ramy did (for example). Then we wouldn't have any of these debates, and could simply focus on the beauty of our sport! Let's see how things continue to unfold! - Ahad

[@MrPatrick1414]

Wishing Elias (a true sportsman) had called that definite stroke on match ball in the semis

[@ARProformance]

Agreed. Kudos to him for playing through it. I'm sure that he will stop and call the stroke when it presents itself in the future!!! - Ahad

[@martincollins6632]

This strategy is more effective against an opponent you are much bigger and heavier than.

[@ngzijian14]

Question: Based on the explanation you gave at 11:00 when the path to clear for the non striker and the path to go in for the striker happens to be the same line, and the striker stops to ask for a let (if sufficient interference), can it be deemed YES LET and (SHARED INTERFERENCE) as the reason?

[@altaroxllc3184]

The clearing player's correct clearing line....is....always...out of the way of the incoming player's direct access line to where he can/desires to play the ball.

[@ARProformance]

The factor that comes to mind Zijian is the quality of the shot (assuming that both players are making maximal effort to get out of the way / to the ball). So if the striker plays a loose ball, is shoulder be a stroke. If the striker plays a decent ball, it would be a let, assuming the non-striker could reach it without the interference, and assuming that they did not put themselves in that situation by playing a poor / loose shot. If the striker plays a winning shot, even if there is interference, it will be a no let. I hope this helps clarify things. Lots of subjectivity of course (referee's perspective). - Ahad

[@pazgrimberg4212]

what are you going to do all these backd-by-data implications?

[@salahmelmouled]

Yeah, it’s really disappointing and ruining the game. I hate to see him in the court. However, the last final of CIB squash tour 2021 with El Shorbagy was not that bad. And that’s because the ref knew all about it and was ready with firm calls which prevented Asal from being that bas guy. Hope he gets better soon. Thanks, man.

[@ARProformance]

I agree Salah! Some matches are not bad, others are pretty brutal. He's also quite subdued against Mohamed because he is one of his mentors / idols. Against some other players it's a lot more apparent. But you're right, the refs need to step in right away! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and support, - Ahad

[@FinancialFreebo]

With your experience and comments, have you ever thought of going into coaching?

[@ARProformance]

Hi Jon - Thanks for the support. I currently do coach in Toronto, Canada. I mentor and train high performance junior athletes among others. I also coach virtually around the world, and a couple of months ago I had the great privilege of becoming a published author in a multi author book I'm very grateful for your support among many others, to allow me the platform to share my experiences 🙏🏼 thank you

[@michaelmoore6287]

Asal is a brilliant stroke player and hits unbelievable kills. He has the potential to reach the top but needs to be careful he isn’t remembered as a chest. He knows full well what he is doing. He has to give the opponent a straight run to the ball, which often he doesn’t. Hopefully his coach will get him to grow up, and show more respect to his opponents

[@ARProformance]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts Michael. I agree with you, in that with the right mentorship he can mature and become a true champion! - Ahad

[@jarrodclarke2076]

Very insightful break down of his movement. Sometimes an agitator is needed to spice things up but this is going too far

[@ARProformance]

Thanks Jarrod for the kind words. His movement appears to have been reigned in a fair bit recently. Here's to hoping it continues! - Ahad

[@ianreid4811]

Oops posted before I’d finished; . . . . . . . . and as such it is CHEATING. The way to stop him (and everybody else who makes a habit of this sort of thing) doing this is for the referees to strictly apply the rules and award strokes to his opponents. Unfortunately at club level the level of knowledge of the rules is so low that offenders get away with it their entire squash playing careers. The pro referees know better and need to get on his case.

[@mikealanlee]

Agreed. The clips do show some questionable movement but it's difficult to see the lines that "should" be chosen without seeing more of the previous shots. Many times I move higher than the T to allow a clear line to the ball after hitting a drive based on where the opponent "should" be positioned be positioned if they had played a reasonable shot. One could call this movement cheating or clearing depending on the opponents previous shot/positioning. That said I'm as far from a professional player as you can get so maybe that is incorrect movement. Perhaps this is some left over play style coming from a dominant junior but...... It is the refs responsibility to police and call these types of movements and crack down on this type of play. If the consequences are severe enough then people would stop doing these movements. Asal is not the only one that does this but together with his other court antics makes it a very uncomfortable watch. If the movements are bad enough a let or stroke should be issued. Some contact is expected to be played through but that is why we have a ref.

[@ARProformance]

I agree Ian, in that the referees need to act swiftly to nip it in the bud immediately. It's a different world at the amateur level, and more often than not, no one is doing is deliberately in my experience. - Ahad

[@ARProformance]

You're absolutely correct Mike. The previous shot, opponent's position, etc. all determine the correct line. These are the calculations referees must make in a flash. I chose the clips in the video because I felt that Asal deliberately pushed back in to his opponent's line (accounting for the factors mentioned), and I also shared the clips of both Farag & Ramy as evidence that it can be done cleanly. In fact, the final clip of Asal shows that he too can clear effectively. Thanks for your support and enriching comment, - Ahad

[@IanHarvey-v8u]

I agree

[@ARProformance]

He has improved tremendously over the last while. It's great to see. Wishing you well, - Ahad

[@victorkhong7654]

Asal is an unethical player and should strive to improve this court ethics.

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for sharing your perspective Victor, - Ahad

[@victorkhong7654]

@@ARProformance I stumbled upon your channel by accident searching for imformation about squash coaches. I grew up in the era where Jahangir had just retired and exciting players were Peter Nicol and Jonathan Power. The current generation of players are nothing short of remarkable: Mohammed El-Shorbagy, Ali Faraq, Tarek Momen, Paul Coll and the list goes on. This is also true of the female PSA players today. The stamina, shotmaking, tactics and strategies in present tournaments are a wonder to behold. I agree with your analysis on Asal. So much talent, yet so willing to cross a line here or there in pursuit of greatness (reminds me of some driver behaviour on the F1 circuit and if you followed F1 in 2021, I am opposed to a referee changing the interpretation of rules against precedent in the last 5 laps of the season ending race to give an advantage to a competitor.) The sporting values embodied in the rules of squash and spirit of the game have always had a sense of fairplay and decorum due to the shared space of the court in this racquet sport. Unlike the distance at opposite ends of the court in say, tennis, badminton, table tennis, pickleball or volleyball, squash requires players move in the same space and around each other to play the ball. A player's expected behaviour is well understood coming through the ranks of junior player development and junior tournament experience. What we see in various KZbin video clips regarding Asal's obstruction is that players are taking matters into their own hands to collide with Asal to point out the obvious: Asal is obstructing the line to the ball. This would not happen if referees were calling it. The agent best positioned to curb such behaviour is the referee. Yes obstruction as in many squash decisions can be a subjective call. And the action of the court can often take place very quickly. But this is why we also have the utility of a video judge as well. To preserve the integrity and the virtues of squash, we need refs to call obstruction when they see it. Then players will stop telegraphing the obvious on court to prevent players from getting hurt from contact. If Asal can temper this part of his conduct, he is well positioned for greatness in the history of squash champions. But unless he can clean up his act, his legacy will have have the asterisk of being a questionable player in coffee shops and bars among squash fans all over the world.

[@rolandemmerich5993]

Assal is the Cheater Cheetah, much better nick name than the raging bull

[@lazylama6]

Mo Shorbaggy was a bit of a rascal when younger, but he never crossed the line in the way Assal does. I hate his respectless behavior so much, it's ruining what could be great matches. Don't think Assal will change, he is aware of the criticism and thinks it's all just haters whining and that he does nothing wrong. I love squash and think it would be better for the game if a cheat like Assal gets a career ending injury.

[@steverogers7473]

I agree apart from the injury comment. I really am not a fan of Asal's attitude, or his deliberate movement into players lines.

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Lazy Lama. I agree with much of what you said. I hope that he doesn't get injured, and instead finds a suitable mentor that can help him overcome some of the shortcomings he currently may or may not be aware of. Thanks for watching and commenting, - Ahad

[@honesty8310]

asal is the worst thing to happen to squash in years!

[@shed23]

Great vid But Asal is a dirty player

[@ARProformance]

Take a look at my latest video from the recent CIB event - available tomorrow morning :) Thanks for watching, - Ahad

[@alyzeintube]

Asal's movement is totally fine, he takes his position on the T and moves out to hit the ball and moves back in. taking as few steps as possible, the "General" did that for decades so did the "Wolf". Some players stay too close to Asal, e.g., Paul, which creates the interference. The Ramy vs Aly clip is a demonstration to how Aly was staying further away from Ramy as compared to Asal. The solution is to move Asal away from the T, when players cannot move Asal away from the T, they complain, but they should be blaming themselves, not Asal.

[@ARProformance]

Thank you for sharing Aly. I appreciate your perspective. First and foremost, I'd like to comment Asal on significantly improving his trailing leg and path off the ball. It's much better than it used to be, so kudos to him. Secondly, I agree with you in that if an opponent hits a weak ball, players are entitled to take their space. There is a subtle difference between taking space, and clearing into one's opponent's line, and also using the hips to throw an opponent off balance. I'm looking forward to watching him play in the upcoming events! He's a fantastic squash player 👏🏼 wishing you the best, - Ahad

[@trinerd]

PSA should hire you to train refs, and I wish Asal views this so that he can improve his court antics. What a dirty player.

[@ARProformance]

I appreciate your support 🙏

[@crazydog6734]

I really want to watch your videos, but it’s way too long. You have to be more succinct.

[@ARProformance]

I think that you'll find a lot of value if you stick through them 😉 - Ahad

[@shehzadabbasi1917]

No Boss..your video is totally Biased.. he is a tall player.. holding the T superbly..defiantly every players once play close to T..comes back on the T.. he don't have a 3rd leg to go diagonal BOSS.. he is fine . In fact he is upcoming threat for players..his attitude may be discussed a bit but as a player he is excellent.

[@ARProformance]

I appreciate your thoughts Shehzad. The last clip in the video shows how he can come back to the T "normally" while allowing his opponent a line to the ball. The examples of Ramy and Farag also show the movement possible to allow your opponent a line to the ball. I agree with you that Asal is a phenomenal player on the rise, but he definitely uses his body and movement to get in the way (in my humble opinion) 🙏🏼 And in some people's opinions, that's totally fine. To others, it's not. That's personal preference. My preference is the example of Ramy and Farag 😊

[@Chevovish]

How can the video be biased when there are side-by-side clips showing Asal coming back to T in different fashions just so he can block the opponent's line? AR basically pointed out the inconsistence in his movement. Pretty puzzling for a top player, right? Not when you realize a lot of time he is NOT trying to get back to T but trying deliberately to get in the way. And on the note of him being a tall player, how is that an excuse? Farag is literally of the same height.

[@SKB05]

@@ARProformance absolutely disgusted to see how everyone including you is complaining about his movement! He is an upcoming world no 1 and in my opinion everyone’s just jealous of him . For me he is one of the best players in the world and he will stay like that! These silly comments and complains won’t change anything:). He doesn’t block , he never does that! Its totally not okay to say that and accuse someone of what he hasn’t done . And as far as MR.shezads comment is concerned , I totally agree with him! He doesn’t have three legs ahad:). Anyways I believe everyone has different opinions despite the fact that he is being accused here not judged or any opinion showed here lmao. Regards Ghazi

[@davidtimmins4074]

Ask Elias, Au, Momen, Farag, Soliman, Hesham, Cole, M. ElShorbagy or Serme on their opinions of Asal's drop and block techniques and dangerous playing style.

[@vinodduraikan5733]

Another good video. The refs need to see this.

[@altaroxllc3184]

Some do....

[@ARProformance]

Thanks Vinod. Hopefully they're also watching :) - Ahad

[@shyamumich]

Love the positivity that you bring. Analysis is clear and to the point yet you don't shame the player. Sure we can't convince you to take a public office?

[@ARProformance]

Haha, thank you so much for the kind words. Who knows what the future holds. You've just planted a seed in my head 😉😂 - Ahad

[@leodumora5498]

After being 1st angry at him, I've quickly understood that Asal is actually bringing the possibilty for this sport to improve, in terms of refeereing. This sport will never be 100% readable for the public, because it's in its essence to be ambigus (sharing fairly a space where you have to beat your partner), but as this sport is aging, as players are mastering more and more every aspects of the game, ofc one day people will try to master the "sharing aspect", which is huge, in every way possible, as the margins to improve are becoming lower and lower. It's like in the natural evolution of this still young sport. So référées have to step up also in the way of more readibility of their decisions, which is incredibly tough to do it live. But there are quite nice margins of improvments I think (poor décisions are still not so rare). For the best of this wonderful sport. Thanks for your analysis !

[@ARProformance]

Thank you for your comments Leo. Great perspective that you have shared. His movement is raising everyone's awareness (referees, spectators etc.), and in turn, we are all forced to improve in our own ways. This is a very empowering attitude, and I commend you for it. Thank you for sharing! - Ahad

[@invzamora]

Great video, Farag is a foul player

[@07153806d]

It is true that squash is changing. Some thought this would be more attractive if it is with faster pace, giving less simple let, and encouraging more explict expression for emotions. The understanding of space and line has been different from what squash community perceive 15+ years ago. But end up it could also rune the game if the referee and squash community could not maintain the fairness of the game with all the subtle movement within game.

[@ARProformance]

I agree. It needs to be monitored before it gets out of hand. It's a slippery slope that we might be going down... - Ahad

[@martincollins6632]

Also would be good to see comparisons with other big body players. Like David palmer

[@ARProformance]

Great suggestion Martin. Thank you 🙏🏼 I appreciate your support, - Ahad

[@watching99134]

In the Momen match it seemed like Asal not only blocked but pushed Momen out of the way when he felt *he* was being blocked. Also, do you think Asal also does this when he plays guys his own size or bigger? I feel like guys like Asal and Parker don't do as much of this stuff when they play opponents like Declan James, Omar Mosaad, etc. (essentially they're bullies who only pick on people smaller than themselves),

[@ARProformance]

Asal is a strong guy, and he does go through opponents when he feels that he is being blocked. I think that he has a certain level of respect for some guys like Mohamed Shorbagy, and he didn't block then. Truthfully, I need to watch more of his matches against other big guys to notice his movement. Thanks for the suggestion 🙏🏼 - Ahad

[@fridbertaugust]

I wish you had seen the NG game when doing this. No arrows or slo-mo's needed. It was just painfully obvious. Big thanks to NG, btw.

[@ARProformance]

I'm actually creating a video on that match as we speak! Hoping to release it tomorrow :) Thanks for your support, - Ahad

[@fridbertaugust]

@@ARProformance looking forward to it. Great content btw. Wish you success.

[@robleisner6141]

For mine, the cleanest period of time we've seen in the last 30 years in terms of movement occurred when Ramy rose to power. It says something that we are starting to see these movement issues occurring more frequently once again now that he has retired. Asal may IMO be the worst offender, but there are others doing it as well. Elias' movement on occasion can be suspect. Again, young player.

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for sharing. I agree that Ramy was the cleanest mover. He always gave his opponent a line to the ball, and never took unnecessary space. He let his skill do the talking. He's always a pleasure to watch. I hope that many of the top players guilty of dodgy movement clean things up a bit. It is getting a bit out of hand. There's a grey line between taking space when your opponent hits a loose ball, and deliberately getting in their way. I hope that players return to the cleaner side of that equation. All the best, - Ahad

[@nicksee1970]

another nice video! imo it all boils down to sportsman like attitude. asal shd definitely start adopting good attitudes otherwise he might be stuck wit a "bad boy of squash" moniker i agree with you that he should also get a mentor to fix his attitude pronto the deliberate blocking is not just irritating but at times dangerous as asal tends to spread out his body with his trailing leg when he blocks. his trailing leg could cause the opponent to trip thereby causing injuring... that's definitely not cool

[@ARProformance]

As always, I appreciate your perspective Nicholas. Definitely agree that there is injury risk. Even in the match against Farag he almost tripped Farag several times... - Ahad

[@ThePMantis]

Asal is the worst player in the PSA...he consistently blocks, trips, cheats and is dangerous. He should be thrown out of the sport!!! Horrible to watch. Imagine younger players following his example. It'll destroy the game of squash. Lifetime ban is the only answer.

[@fabriziopassamonti6375]

Great great job. Little comment on your thoughts regarding Asal general attitude "of turning his mindset into a positive way": 2 years passed, and you should have quite a lot of clips for 2 or 3 more episodes. As a conclusion we can say that the guy is the dirtiest player on PSA despite his incredible skills, and he is just acting like the poor kid at school that was always punished for every trouble in the classroom. I hope this is not the standard that they want to bring to the Olimpics...

[@AncientXxC]

Controversy works best if you already have a big fan base. Asal's behavior is eroding the respect for the sport fast. Either the refs step in, or the organization can continue to wonder why people like paddel so much.

[@Peter2008now]

I agree with your analysis.

[@ARProformance]

Glad you're enjoying the analyses Peter. Thanks for supporting, - Ahad

[@stevemd6488]

Played racquet sports all my life, pretty good at it. I know a dirty player when I see him.

[@darenhernandez8125]

Excellent analysis. What do you think of Asal's movement back to the T from the BHS after playing a hot behind the service box but b4 the back wall? I thought sometimes his direct mvmt back to the T was suspect since I have seen some players make less of a direct mvmt allowing the retrieving player the direct path to the ball. I know the vid was about Asal but I just wanted to commend Farag's attitude during and after the game. He did not become aggressive, played through, showed concern for his opponent after he made those dives and very gracious at the end.

[@ARProformance]

I feel that he does subtle things in so parts of the court when the opportunity presents itself, unfortunately. I love (and agree with) your point about Farag during and after the match. His attitude is fantastic, win or lose! A great role model for the younger generation. - Ahad

[@ahmedhafez6876]

Great analysis that was even done before the last two matches meetings with Tarek which you would have picked up many more...I am very concerned about how fast the young players are picking this style as a trendy squash which will render the game very disappointing with more lets and strokes or very aggressive if no lets and strokes...As to the antiques, this is due to Asal being a player of the most famous football club not only in Egypt but in middle East is deliberately bringing this type of fuss to squash...I don't believe this is the way that promotes the game to the olympics but rather displace it away much further...

[@ARProformance]

Thank you for sharing Ahmed. There certainly seems to be an football influence. My hope is that he will fix this sooner rather than later. Truthfully, I think that some of the very unnecessary movements have subsided, but there is definitely some room for improvement. I will create a video on some of the changes I've noticed in the coming weeks. Hopefully if we can all provide some positive encouragement it will help provide additional fuel to change 🙏 - Ahad

[@NGoodwin]

Thanks again for another top class video. I find your balanced comments and search for solutions highly encouraging. Like many keen viewers, I too am intrigued by Mostafa's style; I would be the first to applaud the success of newcomers. It might be worth mentioning his outstanding match against Greg Gaultier last year(?) where youth overcame experience in a spectacular manner. Fitting, in view of your remark about Greg!

[@ARProformance]

Thank you Nicholas 🙏🏼 he is extremely talented and is oozing with potential. If he can drop some of the antics it would make him more fun to watch. All the best, - Ahad

[@stevehughes1510]

When a player is striking the ball they have a court position and it's up to their opponent to hit the ball next in which ever way they can. If the striker plays a loose shot he may have a stroke given against him for example if he doesn't move out of the way quickly. Asal and Farag are very quick movers and volley the ball wherever possible plus they're not short guys so their legs are going every which way. It's up to the referee in each match that these top guys play to control and decide on any interference whether malicious and frequent or unintended. To me Asal is holding his court position in these examples and Farag can ask for a let, and with the fast pace of the games there is a certain amount of crowding that goes on that the ref has to deal with in any situation.

[@ARProformance]

Thanks for sharing Steve. I appreciate your perspective. The refs certainly have a difficult job at hand! The challenge I see is that given the harder approach referees have taken in recent history (i.e. the player must make maximum effort to get to the ball), if the referee doesn't see the subtle blocking movements, it appears as though the opponent is not making maximum effort, and must go through and play the ball, thus resulting in a no let. The subtle blocks that throw off balance etc in my opinion, should result in a stroke against the blocking player. That's just my humble opinion. Thank you for your support, - Ahad

[@stevehughes1510]

@@ARProformance If the ref doesn't pick up(see) any interference he shouldn't be in the chair doing the job, and sometimes we see examples of that where refs are just not capable as in recent tournaments played in Egypt unfortunately. Years ago here in NZ we had one national mens champion who blocked all the time and it wasn't that subtle it was part of his game plan, the referees let it happen........most disappointing for a couple of years there.