Egypt's Mohamed Elshorbagy at the British Open (Photo: Squashsite.com)
World number one Mohamed Elshorbagy of Egypt edged closer to winning his first British Open title after beating world number two Nick Matthew of England in the tournament's semi-final on Saturday.
Elshorbagy prevailed with a 3-1 win in 54 minutes to overcome a tough opponent and come within touching distance of lifting the British Open trophy.
He won the first two games 11-7 and 11-7 before Matthew emerged winner in the third, winning 11-5. However, Elshorbagy won the third game 11-5 to settle the tie in his favour.
"Really happy to make my 1st ever British final after beating world number 2 Nick Matthew today...it's been a tough tournament and a tough draw but really happy with how I dealt with it all week here!!" the 24-year-old said on his Facebook page.
In Sunday's final, the 24-year-old will face Frenchman Gregory Gaultier, who beat Colombia's Miguel Rodriguez in the other semi-final later on Sunday.
"I Will be up against world number 3 Gregory Gaultier tomorrow!! One last push!!!" Elshorbagy added.
The British Open, also known as the Allam Open, is named after Egyptian-born businessman Assem Allam, who is sponsoring the tournament.
Allam is also the owner of English Premier League football club Hull City, where Egyptian winger Ahmed Elmohamady plies his trade.
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