The Wadi Degla player achieved 24 international titles since starting her career in 2009
In shock news for squash lovers, Egyptian star Raneem El-Welily announced her retirement Thursday, saying her priority now is to start a family with her husband Tarek Moamen, also a professional squash player.
The 31-year-old squash star El-Welily is the first Egyptian women to lead any world ranking since September 2015. She then won the World Championship in 2017 in England.
"For the past year or two I must have written these words in my head over a thousand times. Squash has been my life for the past 25 years, but the time has come for me to say goodbye,” El-Welily said in a statement Thursday.
The Wadi Degla player achieved 24 international titles since starting her career in 2009.
"What a ride it has been. When this journey started, I never thought that it would take me this far. I have been so fortunate to have witnessed many generations play the game, to have been inspired by so many legends, and to have been a part of such a great era," the statement added.
"I don't know what the future holds for me career-wise, but I do know that starting a family with Tarek is a priority for us. And whatever challenges life may throw our way, I hope that I will be ready to face them.
"I may be saying goodbye to the competition, but I'm not saying goodbye to all the memories (good and bad), all the bonds and friendships I have built, all the wonderful things that will forever live with me."
"This is not a sad goodbye, for today I say goodbye with two smiling hearts and much love," the Egyptian squash players said.
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