Was this the right decision? 🤔 | Asal v Masotti | So you think you can ref?

[@squashtv]

Know the rules, know the game 👉 bit.ly/3s4o5gi

[@memphisb2071]

The problem isn't whether the contact was intentional or not, the problem is that Asal is intentionally (maybe by now unconsciously) moving into the path between the opponent and the ball (which the rules clearly forbid), in order to block/disturb the opponent from getting to/hitting the ball. By doing so, contact will always be created (regardless of whether Asal intended or not, because he will always be in the way!). So Asal's opponent is forced to either make a huge circle to the ball, which avoids contact, but most likely loses the point, or go directly to the ball (as allowed by the rule), but crashing into Asal. In this video instance, you see this as Asal moves back into Masotti, rather than naturally moving to the T, which is more in the front.

[@gordoncampbell4706]

Hey memphisb2071, I couldn't agree more with your observation. I will continue to boycott any offerings which include "he whose name must not be spoken", such a waste of time and breath. Tuned in to see if anything has changed since suspension, not so much I see. Good luck PSA, at least we have until 2028 LA to clean house. Best regards.

[@markdrover9741]

That is spot on. Asal has a bad record and now is paying the price for playing the game in the wrong spirit.

[@memphisb2071]

@@gordoncampbell4706 In my opinion, Asal is the victim of misguidance, lack of education (both himself and the world around him), and lack of punishment. Misguidance: Asal's coach probably drilled him into instinct on how to block opponents without looking like he is blocking them. Even if Asal's coach didn't teach him this dirty trick, he/she never coached Asal to not do so. Poor guidance regardless. Lack of education: Asal's coach probably had little knowledge of the rules of squash, and Asal himself (actually many other pro players too) probably have very little knowledge of the actual rules, as many players just play by instinct on what feels like a LET or STROKE, without any knowledge on the rules. In addition, referees throughout the majority of Asal's career probably had poor vision and execution in spotting and punishing this wrongful behaviour (only recently did behaviours like those of Asal's get punished). So, lack of education from Asal's coach, Asal himself, referees, and other players, resulted in Asal believing that he is doing nothing wrong. Lack of punishment: for Asal's whole life, he never got punished, probably because not enough people cared at a lower level. He only started getting punished when he was making it into big events and getting recorded on PSAsquashTV and more and more people are revealed with this disgusting behaviour. What is he gonna think in this case? That people are jealous of him for his success and want to punish him because of jealousy... If I were in Asal's shoes, I would probably have the same distorted perspective, given the circumstances. In short, I'm saddened by such a loss/waste of talent, but I don't blame everything on Asal, as I think there are many external circumstances that led him to where he is today. I hope Asal will find the light in the dark dungeon, as I also think he is one of the most talented players ever! Imagine what a gift to the whole squash world it would be, to watch Asal play cleanly and without blocking!

[@gordoncampbell4706]

Absolutely, some one has seen raw talent and decided to promote winning at any cost. I have actually played in tier 1&2 level league matches and to my dismay discovered my opponent has no knowledge of let or stroke or worse turning, ouch!. How do they get to this level without understanding fair access is for both players. At some point he must accept responsibility and progress or find a sport that fits his "style", of play.

[@Stuffcakes]

Entire compilations could me made of him doing this again and again. Despite being temporarily banned numerous times now, he continues to do this. He does not learn. He does not even turn it down a notch. I don't think you can still give him the benefit of the doubt at this point. As talented as he is, I think the other players should be protected from him.

[@Shinycoat]

Joey, I suspect the crowd reaction had nothing to do with the referee decisions... they are objective and impartial are they not 🤔. I suspect the crowd reaction may be because they are sick and tired of seeing the behaviour of this guy at every tournament he competes in. Perhaps they have simply had enough of it and are willing to demonstrate their dissatisfaction. Fair play to the crowd I say.

[@leonardo-o1z3o]

1:11 asal tripped him

[@feliperosito1414]

Despite the punishing to Asal, Masotti played a wonderful squash, fully deserved!

[@nicholasfallowfield4379]

looked like a deliberate trip to me. Super squash by both players more importantly.

[@MarcelDriessen-vw5op]

Asal will pretend to move back to the T, but will choose a line that causes interference. In this case he steps back while the T is to the front knowing that Masotti will take this line. When you carefully look at his 'step back to the T' during his matches, you will recognise the pattern. Great decision!

[@mahmoodkhwaja3292]

Asal did not step back. He deliberately lifted his lower leg in the way. He knew what he was doing. Not only is it unsportsmanlike, but it is also dangerous. There is no place in the sport for players like Asal, no matter his abilities.

[@danielnevin8777]

He did not advance towards the T. Unsubtle interference, his bullshit reputation precedes him. Let Asal play in the Olympics with this cheating attitude will get squash banned like boxing. I predict he'll be banned for a year next time.

[@boyzinho281]

either way, it's fantastic to see Asal lose

[@davesmith826]

It'll be even more rewarding when he gets knocked out. It's only a matter of time before someone - anyone! - loses his head and levels Asal on court. It would have happened a long time ago in other sports I've played - rugby e.g. It's high time it happens to Asal, who is far too good a player to not know what he's doing in these instances.

[@boyzinho281]

@@davesmith826 I'd be watching that on repeat

[@hirooh3143]

Saw the match live. The decision is entirely correct. Surprised commentators assume any influence of the crowd. They simply reacted to what was shown on the screen. A clear movement to make Masotti trip. Massotti actually said something about he didn’t feel it was on purpose and that he felt the match was fair. However that particular situation to me felt like Asal resorted to known tactics. So sad to see as his line hitting was excellent. Kudos to Masotti to defending Asal, but seriously let’s start defending him when he shows he has changed. And not before.

[@mooboo6603]

Commentator is dumb

[@puma3620]

What some people are missing is that asal stiffens his leg to make the interference look like an accident. He holds it out longer than it would normally if it was just masotti snagging his leg by accident. It's clear when you see the replays that it is intentional.

[@abeetkin4784]

that was intentional indeed! but keep in mind...squash is a metaphorical mix of boxing and chess. Asal is a scrappy player with the skills to prove it...its up to the ref (best of luck to them) to adhere to the rules. But I'd still keep an eye out for Asal. He's now 22 years old, learning lessons while occasionally winning major professional titles........i hope we haven't seen the last of him

[@chrispowell8043]

A clear example of the Ref and others seeing what they want to see. Masotti catches Asal's leg on the way through. That's clear.

[@Kops549]

Asal intentionally lifted his rear leg.

[@chrispowell8043]

@@Kops549 yes after masotti had caught it on way through. It's very clear

[@danielnevin8777]

I agree, his leg was lifted by the collision but as a dance move, Asal moved into Masotti's path, it was subtle and the call was marginal but ultimately correct. But given the totality of Asal's dangerous play for which he's been suspended with progressively more serious sanctions, it's always hard to give him the benefit of the doubt. Omar Mosaad is another giant Egyptian player and he's always gracious on court and you never see collisions like this with him. Compare and contrast.

[@scottthurmeier2163]

Aside from strokes or lets, it seems that there is likely a cumulative impact over 5 games/ 1:20 in exhausting/ annoying the other player. The Hesham game and the one with Elias show both of them being beyond exasperated, less because of clear strokes etc. and more with 20-30 small bumps/ obstructions throughout the match. At this level, the margins are so tight that if you gain a 0.5 advantage on each point, over the course of nearly 100 points, it might be the difference between winning and losing......and you might also be to throw the other player off mentally. In the Hesham game, it looked to me like Hesham invested a lot of energy in "not giving him (Asal) the satisfaction" of reacting poorly.......right up until the very end when he showed his exasperation.

[@TheFinav]

I played squash for decades and never once did I purposely stick my leg out to hinder my opponent. And neither did anyone else do this to me. Asal is playing a kind of squash that I neither recognise nor like.

[@wafa7153]

OK we will send u thanking letter

[@utrabbit007]

Ditto

[@gordoncampbell4706]

I have played for at least 3 decades and only recently have been treated with the "slew foot" experience on several occasions, count yourself lucky. Back in the day, no contact was allowed, rules now include light contact. Much like figure skating, referring can be subjective.

[@pjkammer6801]

I am not sure it's clear that Asal did that. Masotti may have tripped on his stationary leg and pulled it out. Really tough call.

[@jackieking1522]

@@pjkammer6801 How can tripping over a stationary leg cause it to move backwards AND then be tripped over?? It looked to me a deliberate flick back. But so fast...could it have been involuntary.... as in no time to consider the consequences? Now Mr Asal can watch it slowly and in hindsight, I wonder what he thinks of it? Wonderful rallies though.... pity there had to be "controversy".

[@hampus_lundberg]

For me it's not the leg, it's the movement backwards that's the stroke, why move backwards when the T is in front

[@grademployment]

to provide some space for the player if you play to the front

[@drubber007]

Because he's a cheating * * * *

[@MrAnkrom]

Very good decision. Well played Masotti. Asal needs to learn to play it fair

[@davidtimmins4074]

Asal looking for another suspension? How many of his opponents have been tripped, blocked or injured by his movements? Elias, Momen, Ng, Cole, Makin, Solomon, Serme, Hesham and now Masotti, just to name a few.

[@larsgibbon3327]

Easy conduct stroke, the movement was obvious. Asal was trying to get in the way.

[@GG-gk7jn]

Sadly Asal his paying the price of his attitude… with such talent he really doesn’t need to do all this. He’s a very talented player. Congrats to Mazotti, amazing game ! 👏🏻 bravo

[@clydewardle]

Deliberate trip, which is super dangerous and cynical. He got off lightly with a conduct stroke.

[@berenscott9347]

Where does Asal need to be after playing his shot? On the T. Where does he go? A step to the right and behind of the T, blocking the opponent's line. Pretty straightforward.

[@networkn]

This is exactly right. If it wasn't intentional (it was!) it was careless, either way, punishment.

[@Ximan2]

I would like to know how many calls and/or referee decisions on average are made in matches that Asal plays. Compared to a more clean player like Gawad for example. I feel more interferences/stoppages are bad for the view rates of the sport.

[@MegaGavinski]

Can’t fault the decisions. Asal is careless at best, and for a big guy he needs to concentrate on his movement.

[@networkn]

He is training with James Wilstrop who will not let this stand. JW is one of the players who sets the gold standard in on and off court conduct, and I know for a fact, he abhors this type of behavior, if it wasn't intentional (it was!) it was careless. Neither is acceptable.

[@johelp549]

The right descision is for the referee to step into the court and kick Asal.

[@FiachnaG]

🤣🤣

[@박미소-w2o]

If you look at the video speed slowly, it's clear

[@mahmoodkhwaja3292]

Asal is a disgrace. He deliberately blocks. He gives Squash a bad rep. He should be disqualified for life.

[@frankschuering6599]

Agree with most of it. A lifelong disqualification is too much - a year would have an effect on him.

[@mc483]

​A year would have no effect, he's either learnt or been coached to play dirty, ban him for a year and he'll come back in a year with the same routine. He's a disgrace.

[@t3rman1]

It's simple, He's gonna back when he should be going left to the T. The only reason he is going back is to block. Such a shame. I see he is trying but it appears to of been engrained into his game. Good luck to James (one of the cleanest and nicest players in squash) rehabilitating him. It would be a pleasure to see a nice Asal game.

[@Ribbitdaddy]

He cheats, plain and simple. It’s not like he has never been called before for numerous attempts at cheating. He just came off of suspension and clearly is right back to his old cheating ways. Asal should be suspended for the rest of the season.

[@SantiagoOntanonVillar]

I am no Asal fan, but in this case, if you play slow-mo, Asal's leg is actually pushed by Massoti's knee. So, the leg part was not intentional. Now whether you think he should have moved backwards or not, that's a harder decision. Sometimes it's hard to know if the opponent will go around you from the front or from the back, and you get out of the way in the wrong direction.

[@stevenongszekuan9932]

nah from the front angle he move back after played the shot he is not clearing obviously by move to the T

[@memphisb2071]

For you maybe it's hard, but for who was the world number 1 in 2023, and for this very simple situation where Asal even briefly looks behind to make sure that Masotti is behind him before hitting the ball into the front corner, Asal's movement is a natural instinct developed to create blockage and advantage via disadvantaging the opponent's access to hitting the ball.

[@SantiagoOntanonVillar]

Yeah, I do not necessarily disagree with either of you @memphisb2071 and @stevenongszekuan9932 , I just wanted to comment on the leg thing, that when I saw the match live I initially thought it was intentional.

[@simonpatterson793]

@@SantiagoOntanonVillar Yeah, I agree. Asal's history came back to bite him here, but I think in this particular incident a conduct stroke was the wrong decision. Its a pretty minor move backwards, and although it looks like his leg moves backward to make a trip (as many comments here suggest), from what you can see in the footage (which isn't perfect, so there is that caveat), Masotti runs into the back of Asal's leg causing the movement. If anything, Asal probably probably kind of goes limp to try and avoid the contact impacting Masotti so much, otherwise his leg wouldn't have gone out that far. I suspect Masotti half realised this, and hence why he queried whether the conduct stroke was needed, which was really good sportsmanship from him. Asal, to his credit, also takes things very well. Great quality points.

[@ddboy123ful]

@SantiagoOntanonVillar totally agree

[@BeakFoundry]

The sigh of relief and the "uhhhh Jesus christ" at 3:10 is hilarious

[@fem20]

Regardless Asal past, in my opinion it was either a simple stroke for preventing a direct access to the ball or a conduct match. Because if it is considered as intentional, those kinds of moves have no place in the sport... But when we look at in slow mo, it seems that Masotti's knee hits Asal's calf so it does not seem intentional to me. If it occured before during the game, that as usual his back leg trails too much and he received a conduct warning for that (unless he has a full time conduct warning, with he shown previously would be legitimate) then the conduct stoke is logical. But it seems to me that the issue is in his footwork technique, which is clearly super efficient, but when he steps back, he often interferes with the movement of the opponent, look at this on his penultimate shot, Masotti is already super close to hit his right foot...

[@DaveNeve]

This looks really bad from Asal but from behind and in slow motion, you can see that Asal did NOT stick his leg out but Masotti dragged it out during the impact. You have to watch this in slow motion though 'cos otherwise, it looks like a deliberate trip, which is was not.

[@AlexanderStokowski]

the referees have turned squash from the most boring sport to see 25 Years ago to one of the most exiting and athletic events to watch today. Don’t forget about that. Does anyone want to go back to the let and blocking partys we saw in the 90ś. Very sure not. So Referees have to educate the players. Asal is the most skilled unfair player of today in the top ten. So this was not only a decision by the Referee it was a message to the PSA players. Very well done and all of us that love to watch and play squash will benefit from these kind of decisions

[@jackieking1522]

Yes!! I think you have got that very correct. I was hoping to take up competitive squash again but being a bit infirm, I'm blocking all the time and find it miserable to loose to string of justified strokes.

[@eylesit9268]

I think this was the right decision. Asal played his shot just to the right of the T. After playing his shot Asal's movement should have been directly left. But he took not one, but two steps backwards. He steps his left foot backwards, into Masotti's path, and then his right foot backwards, also into Masotti's path. Because his movement was directly into Masotti, and because Asal's shot popped out a fair way from the sidewall, Masotti was rightly awarded a stroke. And because Asal's backward movement was a deliberate attempt to block Masotti, the referee rightly awarded a conduct stroke to Masotti.

[@leonardo-o1z3o]

just pause it and you will see

[@watching99134]

If the commentator feels no conduct stroke should have been awarded it means he thinks Asal's backwards step was not deliberate but he didn't say this as I recall, it looks clear to me that it was and was therefore so dangerous it could have even been a conduct game or match (same thing at that point).

[@1000000trs]

Wrong decision. It should have been a stroke only. Analysis (warning it's long!): *Why should there be no conduct stroke?* The conduct stroke element of the combined decision was given on the incorrect hypothesis that Asal intentionally stuck his leg out. Close scrutiny in slo-mo from all available angles shows that Masotti's leg caught Asal's on the way through, which moved it outwards. The conduct stroke was wrong. A secondary matter: Masotti was pleading with the ref not to punish his opponent Asal on the basis of any intentional interference. Of course, it is not for Masotti to be making the decision and indeed it happened after the referee's decision. It was however very unusual and referees should be alert to the unusual and add it to the body of evidence before reaching their decision; and even be prepared to re-consider their decision in the face of the exceptional. *Why there should be a stroke* "However, Asal did move backwards and left, and quite slowly and lazily. The question is not weather he was moving towards or away from the T, but weather he was making reasonable effort to clear Masotti's path to the ball. Even this is not a definite transgression in this instance, because of the reasonable uncertainty he would experience about which way Masotti would come (again noted by some others who have commented). But his effort to clear was certainly not, shall we say "sprightly"; also as many have pointed out, he could have chosen a better direction to clear, and the unhelpful placement of his right foot (prior to Masottis leg colliding with it) was a degree of interference. As such, it is reasonable to contemplate a stroke. When you then look at how loose the ball comes out, this reinforces the conclusion of stroke. Likewise Masotti made very reasonable effort to play through the interference. The "Stroke" part of the decision was therefor correct. *Lessons Learned* Where there are wrong decisions, its important no only to identify that they are wrong and why, but also to identify the *cause* of the wrong decision: In this case the crowd and in turn the ref have got carried away because the incorrect judgement that Asal moved his leg out intentionally, and possibly also because of Asal's previous reputation. I agree with Joey Barrington's estimation that the crowd was influential in the outcome. The learning points for the official: It is of course not easy, but Ref's need to be *"level headed, keen scrutineers of all the evidence, and pro-active decision makers."* They must consciously (as in all professions where things get tense) avoid being "emotionally engaged reactors to events". When contemplating a conduct stroke, the official should pause to give themselves time to ask - _"Have I on-boarded the relevant evidence?" "Have I scrutinized it properly?" "have I factored it all in to my decision?"_ If the ref did this he would have been become alert to all of the several factors mentioned above, and would have arrived at a better decision. Stroke. *Footnote and suggestion for improving the rules.* Ref's are only human, and it is very difficult to be totally cool and clear minded. Surgeons, pilots, race-car drivers, and poker players all face the same challenge (though of course 3.5 out of 4 of those get paid a lot more than refs!). Where being a creature of emotion (ie human) is the risk, you can't totally remove that risk. But you can substantially mitigate it with a system safeguard. These can be very simple and extremely effective. For example in squash you could have a rule, that for a conduct stroke to be issued, both the Ref and the Video Ref must concur. It only takes a moment for the ref to consult with VR to say, "I propose conduct stroke, do you agree?"

[@philipkori3208]

Well worth my time to read your comment.

[@FiachnaG]

Having rewatched the incident I have to disagree. Although he caught his leg on the way through, it was because Asal stuck his foot out and then it looked worse than it was as he caught it fully. If this was a standalone incident then we could al move on but he does this in every game and its not for Masotti to be the arbiter of whether a conduct stroke is awarded. The referees need to get Asal to clean up his game and he is not doing it. He needs to be penalised for the constant transgressions. A player on the court who may have a very good relationship with him off court is not in a position to make the call.

[@ShellysAshes]

Absolutely pointless trying to judge this in real time. I'm no fan of asal I think he's a disgrace, but if you slow down to 0.25 it actually just looks like asal was unfortunate here and it's just a let. He got punished for his reputation rather than the incident in isolation. He can't complain too much though because he's the one who's created a situation where he won't receive the benefit of the doubt.

[@sabicedo]

Mostly agree with what you said, and while the punishment here is harsh, his movement still isn't the cleanest. The thing is, he has perfected this dodgy movement where it's never a clear cut for the referees, but anybody playing squash knows that just a few centimetres can make a huge difference for the other player and he is a master of taking that.

[@marcoscampos1110]

I put it on 0,25 and my oppinion is totally "on purpose"

[@jackieking1522]

Slowed down, it looked ever more deliberate. To me. So I have to wonder what bias perceptions we might both be bringing to our viewings? Is it possible to get a truly neutral adjudicator? 🤗

[@martincollins6632]

Definitely made an intentional move to obstruct... probably didn't intend to trip him just bump and make him go wide instead of direct line.

[@jacqueshugo7973]

Asal bearing the consequence of his reputation. When slowing down I don't think it should be a conduct stroke

[@post7rock]

I agree. People are seeing what they want to see.

[@stephenworkman8087]

Players must make every effort to clear.

[@coreyho1]

If you slow down the payback speed at around 8 seconds in the video, you can CLEARLY see Asal raised his right leg to trip Masotti. Why does PSA still allow such unscrupulous player like Asal to continue to compete is beyond me!

[@davidshoulder-isleofwight5737]

Definite conduct stroke. Asal deliberately tripped him. Well done ref. The crowd saw it. It was very clear but Barrington decided for whatever reason to bottle it and loses credibility.

[@xalingding]

I don’t want to get into an Asal battle as I’ve always disliked him but I feel like he was a bit hard done by in this situation (mainly his fault to be honest for building his terrible reputation). In this case when I originally watched this I thought he tripped him but if you watch in slow motion you can see Masottis knee hits his leg first which is why it looks like Asal sticks his leg out so I genuinely believe the conduct stroke was a bit harsh and was awarded because of his reputation and the crowd booing. I agree though that Asals movement backward isn’t correct so should be a stroke for that. I would say though that in this tournament following his ban and his coaching from Willstrop that I think this was a massive improvement and if you listen to Masottis speech at the end I think he actually felt a bit bad for dramatising the situation as I think he thinks Asal played very clean for most of the match. I know he’s a d*ck but it does appear that he’s trying now so I’d like to give him one last chance, especially considering he’s one of the most promising talents for the future. Although time will tell and I appreciate we’re all tired of him dragging our sport through the mud

[@abeetkin4784]

ref said "well, ya can't do that..."

[@alloutpestcontrol1800]

This is not fair ASAL is required to change his habbit. Must be given a final warning, if still must banned for 6 months.

[@godsgrannie]

I'm trying my very hardest to understand how anybody can see this as unintentional - he literally just puts his back leg out for no reason other than to impede Masotti. Weird...

[@post7rock]

you are seeing what you want to see mate.

[@godsgrannie]

Well, that's kind of my point. I'm trying really hard to see it from the other point of view, can you describe why it might be unintentional?

[@simonpatterson793]

@@godsgrannie The KZbin footage isn't perfect, but the angle from the back played at 0.25 speed, makes it look very much like Masotti catches Asal's leg which causes that strange 'leg kick' movement which looks like a trip. There's a shuffle backwards from Asal, which is unnecessary but hardly egregious, so stroke feels reasonable, but a conduct stroke seems extreme to me. I'm not an Asal fan (I mean, he's an amazing player, but frustrating to watch because of his antics), but that's how I see this incident.

[@godsgrannie]

​@@simonpatterson793Oh that is interesting to see it at 0.25x speed. I can see how it can be interpreted that way now. I think overall, my gut still feels it was intentional. It's how Asal copes with the interaction, he doesn't look like someone who has been hit from behind the leg, he's somehow way too in control of himself for it to have been an accident. But perhaps the malintent was the step backwards, not necessarily the following leg flick, which would explain why he would be more prepared for the collision. Interesting!

[@grantbriggs3777]

Deliberately tripped

[@leonardo-o1z3o]

look at asal legs

[@chrispowell8043]

Got this one wrong in my view. Masotti catches Asals leg on way through. Unfortunately Asals previous has created the bias that that Refs will now have.

[@vensevenhelijunkie]

Masotti caught Asal's leg, which makes it look worse than it was, however, not sure why asal is stepping backwards? Isn't he meant to be going towards the T?

[@mohammada.siddiqui4086]

My opinion, the decision of giving Strokes, is mildest that it could be. Specifically when the player has history of similar acts. There is a need to see through the intent of such acts and as to what injury could have happened, while making decision by the competent authorities.

[@FiachnaG]

Yes, he will end someone's career if he's not stopped. yes, hes a gifted player and has a lot of Egyptian support but he is a dangerous player who brings the game into disrepute

[@naplito]

he has to move to the T, why did he move backwards? just to block, Conduct Stroke

[@GuillermoZapata-lb3gy]

Squash its now in olimpics games, Asal dont deserve to play there, Asal its not fair play

[@ciaster]

Vanessa pulls out the big J.C to describe the rally that was unbelievable. Quite apt ! 😂

[@KismetAurea]

Chuck Norris is proud of Asal.

[@producTIMity]

As I recall, the original feedback for why SQUASH wasnt permitted in the original olympic attempt was due to the lack of sway of referees.

[@abdallamohamed5844]

Slowing the video down from the front.. the stroke isn't the right decision Masotti took Asal's leg, then he didn't even fail on his knee and he was holding his knee.. He was cheeky! I think the referee has to get a warning!

[@viiali]

Should've included the part where Masotti speaks!

[@mugsy8]

Yes. Asal's footwork triggers me so much. I played a guy 2 weeks ago who took that extra step or half step towards either me or the ball at least once or twice a rally and the scorer refused to give a conduct warning. i got pretty mad, but still played well, lost in 5 by 2 points though.

[@TheKSAswimmer]

That leg movement was nasty! I don’t care how talented you are

[@hyperfluous4751]

Exemplary by Masotti to defend Asal nonetheless, not pursue further punishment, and try prevent him from being banned again. That is class 🤌 And then produce a followup rally like that and take the W.

[@mantisory]

I was more shocked by the announcer saying “Jesus Christ!” After the subsequent furious rally, than the usual Asal nonsense :)

[@mareeverhoef2148]

Agreed. Absolutely unnecessary. Disappointed in SquashTV for allowing such language. @squashtv

[@jj9749]

Better than saying Allah akbar

[@mantisory]

Well, I wasn't offended TBH - I just thought it really unusual - I am not sure I've ever heard that on ANY sports cast

[@jackieking1522]

If I was the announcer you would hear it often and a few other prize ones as well. But I'm not, so your delicacy is preserved.

[@Savz66]

ref got that spot on!

[@absarakhan]

Finally... the minimum possible official penalty imposed. Correct decision.... helps the game remain clean

[@Mike-er2ih]

Asal giving props to another player? Now that's a scandal.

[@blakebrewtnall1152]

It looked like an accident to me

[@terryjonson8060]

How is it that Asal has time to think about the various infractions he's being accused of? This "trip "didn't look intentional while the hand thing against Elias seemed deliberate. Squash is so fast and time is also of the essence, how does he manage to get in the way of these infractions so often? A case of "Where theres smoke, there's fire" ??

[@Rob_Go-Go_Groovy]

Interestingly, Asal’s movement issues often come after he gets a loose ball in the middle of the court from his opponent. A savvy pro can always “negotiate” contact into Asal from the middle of the court - hence why this referee initially gave a No Let. For those saying he stepped into the line of Masotti, had Masotti been at the T, he would have had an easy unobstructed line to the ball - but I suspect Masotti would have still found contact with him regardless. Unfortunately, for Asal, he’s lost any benefit of the doubt with the refs and most viewers. Gonna be tough for him to shed that..

[@martelbaek6660]

Asal can't end someone else's career. I really have an issue with his coach(es).

[@Rob_Go-Go_Groovy]

@@martelbaek6660End their career? What???

[@martelbaek6660]

@@Rob_Go-Go_Groovy or he could end his own career. It's dangerous to him as well, not to mention all the bans.

[@robbinburns6329]

Had Masotti been on the T, he would have been right next to Asal and risked getting a mouthful of racquet from the follow-through of any crosscourt shot. Had he moved forward and/or left enough to be clear of the racquet he would have little chance to retrieve any standard well placed straight length. That is why he set up behind and slightly left - this was in fact the correct/optimal position to stand based on the circumstances (directly behind you can't see the ball and can't move forward through your opponent, behind and right you are in trouble with a short crosscourt or aggressive boast).

[@Rob_Go-Go_Groovy]

@@robbinburns6329I’m not sure I totally agree with your take on this. Masotti’s position on Asal’s shot is behind Asal behind the service box. Asal’s movement to the the right and back actually frees up the middle of the court area. But that positioning chosen by Masotti is solely because his previous shot was poor. No matter where Asal hit on the right side of the court, Masotti could’ve realistically made contact with him and got a favorable decision. The more I look at this, the more I think the original call by the ref of ‘no let’ was the right call.

[@ewallt]

They need to improve the technology. You have situations where there’s a double bounce, the player knows it (who should have gotten the point), and cases like here where you can’t see what’s going on, and the technology is easily presently available to know such things. Asal got hurt by his reputation here. The video was inconclusive in terms of what was happening in regards to the first decision, which cost Asal 3(!) points.

[@vladmirosh6808]

Asal is playing different game, not squash This is in his blood, he'll never gonna change, unfortunatelly

[@hokicoki]

Give over Joey conduct stroke all day long.......Vanessa clealy thinks its a conduct stroke as she is saying nothing !!

[@ChungChiKit]

Hope both players are at peace.

[@soadyp]

Conduct Game . Deliberate act that injured the opponent.

[@filipnilenius3654]

The referees are just bullying Asal at this point

[@geoffwinn3884]

Asal has great talent but his dirty tactics at time is utterly disgusting

[@incredibert]

YES

[@huntrichardson]

All interference decisions were correct. I don't understand why after the first incident the referee told Masotti to serve from the right box. Asal had served the rally, so after the strokes for interference and conduct were awarded to Masotti, it was a hand out with Masotti to choose the side. Also, when Masotti was up 9-8, Asal could have asked for a let. Masotti didn't clear after hitting the forehand drop

[@networkn]

I have respect for Joey, but every time he suggests that wasn't intentional and didn't warrant a conduct stroke, a little part of me died. This was 100% intentional and he has form for this type of behaviour, not to mention he is JUST returned from serving a ban for unsportsmanlike conduct.

[@Wordsley]

3:43 Kicking your opponent is not allowed.

[@johnmessenger5395]

Asal plays his shot while balanced on both feet - his next step, with his left leg could perhaps be accepted as just a normal movement - BUT the following step with his right leg is clearly not normal - it's an unnatural change of direction back UP THE COURT - and looks like a clear attempt to obstruct Masotti..with the clear accompanying risk of tripping him. I like Joey Barrington a lot & respect his role & important contribution to the developing profile of this wonderful sport....so I feel disappointed and very surprised that he couldn't see that this was yet another case of dangerous play (and cheating) by this player.

[@ferdelance.]

I've always found squash completely ridiculous compared to other racquet sports like tennis. Blocking another player's path to the ball is such a major factor to this game and creates such a massive grey area when refereeing

[@TheN00bPolice]

Joey is always in this idiots camp and he needs to get on the right side of history, he’s the equivalent of a Lance Armstrong apologist with regards to Asal

[@jimmorrison4291]

Fair play to Asal for having a grown up discussion at the end. But he needs to learn to get out of the way. Its not always "cheating", he just can't seem to find the balance between taking all the space he wants and being completely submissive. If he ever does he'll be unstoppable.

[@mahmoodkhwaja3292]

If you look at the video in slow motion, it is clear it was a deliberate attempt. He is an idiot to think that this would not be obvious on a replay. The audience reaction was clear indication that it was blatant.

[@FinancialFreebo]

Asal just came out of suspension and he pulls this? He lifted his foot and stuck it in Masoti's way. He deserves to go right back onto suspension. Can you imagine playing against Asal and every time you have to make hasty movements around him you are concerned with getting injured? He is a terrible example for the sport.... horrible.... I just watched the end of the video... Asal acts like an innocent sweetheart.. yeah, right...

[@adielhoward6271]

I agree, he definitely was not cheating. Careless maybe, or just bad judgement. Also you have to consider the speed at which the point is being played.

[@FinancialFreebo]

@@adielhoward6271 go to :43 seconds of this video and watch 2-3 times. Now, tell me why Asal lifted and stuck out his right foot for any innocent reason. Please...

[@adielhoward6271]

@@FinancialFreebo I don't think he stuck his foot out deliberately. Quite possibly you've been programmed to believe that.

[@bigkahoonas4210]

I will never understand why Asal continually does these things. The man is so talented and could hild the world number 1 spot for as long as he chooses. He certainly has the skill and ability. Why throw all those years of incredibly hard work away for such silly mistakes. Yes collisions happen, but Asals look deliberate. Mostafa, i hope you read this, mate just play squash, dont get upset. If your opponent is better on the day, congradulate them and work out what you could have done to win. You have all the ability in the world, dont throw that gift away because of foolishness.

[@memphisb2071]

In my opinion, Asal is the victim of misguidance, lack of education (both himself and the world around him), and lack of punishment. Misguidance: Asal's coach probably drilled him into instinct on how to block opponents without looking like he is blocking them. Even if Asal's coach didn't teach him this dirty trick, he/she never coached Asal to not do so. Poor guidance regardless. Lack of education: Asal's coach probably had little knowledge of the rules of squash, and Asal himself (actually many other pro players too) probably have very little knowledge of the actual rules, as many players just play by instinct on what feels like a LET or STROKE, without any knowledge on the rules. In addition, referees throughout the majority of Asal's career probably had poor vision and execution in spotting and punishing this wrongful behaviour (only recently did behaviours like those of Asal's get punished). So, lack of education from Asal's coach, Asal himself, referees, and other players, resulted in Asal believing that he is doing nothing wrong. Lack of punishment: for Asal's whole life, he never got punished, probably because not enough people cared at a lower level. He only started getting punished when he was making into big events and getting recorded on PSAsquashTV and more and more people are revealed with this disgusting behaviour. What is he gonna think in this case? That people are jealous of him for his success and want to punish him because of jealousy.... If I were in Asal's shoes, I would probably have the same distorted perspective, given the circumstances. In short, I'm also saddened like you for such a loss/waste in talent, but I don't blame everything on Asal, as I think there are many external circumstances that led him to where he is today. I hope Asal will find the light in the dark dungeon, as I also think he is the most talented player ever! Imagine what a gift to the whole squash world it would be, to watch Asal play cleanly and without blocking!

[@davedave5885]

What could Asal have done different? Bad decission...

[@ollyw2897]

He seemed to stiffen his leg to leave it in the path of his opponent. He had the advantage in the rally so I don’t understand why you would move backwards. You’d move forward ready to cut out the next shot. He’s an amazing player but he does seem to do this thing where he stops and stiffens himself as if to say, I’m not in the way instead of continuing to move.

[@FiachnaG]

watch again, he didn't stiffen it, he actually stuck his right leg out to trip Masotti. He wasn't moving anywhere

[@simesaid]

That Asal keeps having these 'moments' is as completely unacceptable as it is completely inexplicable. It's just bizarre. I can't believe that a player of Asals talant, let alone his ranking, would _consciously_ engage in this type of stuff. I tend to believe these actions are most likely 'brain fades', artifacts from his early junior career that he just spontaneously reverts to on occasion. And this would appear to be borne-out by Asal's apologetic manner after the match. I mean, he looked as confused after the point as I did. I'm not excusing him, he needs to do something to try and stop it. I just can't believe that he's on court thinking to himself *"Ok, this is a REALLY big point here, and I'm not talanted enough to win it, so... what if I just stick out my leg and trip the other guy over? Yeah, that's it! Good plan! I'm sure nobody will notice, victory is mine!"* It just doesn't seem all that likely, does it?

[@9267reps]

Nothing else but deliberate!! - the worse unsportsmanship squash player Ive seen at international level. This is not the first hes done it and his team is not helping too or is Asal just refusing to listen. Hes ruining this game by coming up with all these dirty tactics!

[@armandodesmadres5684]

$100 USD he did it intentionally.

[@grademployment]

If he does it on purpose (which I doubt) I struggle to understand why - he can easily beat everyone on tour, except maybe for top3-5 players, where it's always very competitive and back and forth

[@JW-bs7xp]

No he consistently relies on blocking to give him an edge - I don't think he's nearly as effective without compulsive cheating

[@grademployment]

@@JW-bs7xpyou’re not that good at understanding the game then my friend, comes with experience

[@JW-bs7xp]

@@grademployment Your experience has led you to believe that blocking doesn't give you a significant advantage?

[@grademployment]

nope, it led me to believe that Asal is capable of beating almost everyone without it@@JW-bs7xp

[@r2g2]

Just not cricket! The commentator calling on Jesus Christ ?? what a shambles🫣 3:12

[@anonymouscriticizer4661]

lets go LA28

[@diegonaranjo3657]

i was trying a lot to wipe the hair in the screen.. till i notice it was your pic...

[@anonymouscriticizer4661]

😂😂that is what its meant for buddy@@diegonaranjo3657

[@hodaseyam3328]

ماسوتي عرف ازاي يكسب من اخطاء عسل لتاريخه المعروف لدى الحكام للاسف الشديد خسر عسل لسمعته السابقة

[@klintonspuyt434]

All players seem to wanna take advantage of the Asal game from the nr1 to everyone squash is pushing and shoving and the sad part is the PSA have also fallen into this trap..

[@andrewcutler4599]

Great on Mossati for making it clear he didn't think it was intentional. Good on both for accepting it and playing a good next point.

[@innyczlowiek84]

Mr. Masotti, don’t be a nice guy and tell off playing unfairly ☹️ Come on people, ot has to finish one day!!! ☝🏻

[@will_1536]

Good decision!

[@rcp2bTube]

PSA leadership: muppets. Asal obviously needs a one year suspension. He has learned nothing.

[@philiphuckins2613]

I wonder if Mr. Asal will be a member of the Egyptian Olympic team in 2028?

[@jj9749]

If so, squash will never get invited back

[@yehiafadly7096]

Last one is yes let

[@joet7644]

Not sure on the precise rules. It was definitely a stroke and definitely a deliberate trip. Whether in the rules that's a conduct stroke or more I'm not sure.