Egypt’s Mohamed ElShorbagy claimed his 28th title of his career after beating surprise finalist and compatriot Tarek Momen to win the Qatar Classic – PSA World Series tournament – for the third time (he won the 2013 and 2015 titles).
[3] Mohamed ElShorbagy beat world No.8 Momen 3 -1: 11-8, 10-12, 11-7, 11-7 in 64 minutes inside Doha’s Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex.
Before the final, ElShorbagy went through World No.8 Fares Dessouky, World No.4 Ali Farag and World No.1 Gregory Gaultier and his experience did not let him down as he managed to see off debutant finalist, Momen in the final.
“I’m extremely proud of how I performed this week at this event, said ElShorbagy. When I saw the draw pre-event I knew it would be tough. I had to play the World No.9, the No.5, the No.1 and the No.7 to win, but playing tough opponents is the challenge that I live for. To be the best you have to beat these players.”
“At the end of the day you want to challenge yourself against the best. Backing it up mentally each day was not easy – but I’m really happy. Last season I didn’t play like a winner – this week I feel like I played at my best level and that was my focus coming here.”
“But today it didn’t matter how tired I was – it was about how much I wanted to win. I just killed myself on every shot and I’m so happy to have won.”
Speaking about his compatriot Momen, Elshorbagy said, “I was trying to contain him but at times he was like a train – I just couldn’t stop him. When he took the second game it was a big blow for me. He really pushed me and I feel this is just the beginning for him. If he can keep that momentum, he’ll be hard to stop.”
“What made the difference today was my experience. I have been in so many finals. But it was his first. I knew the emotions he was going through.” The World No.3 added.
After the match Momen said: “It’s been an incredible week for me. I didn’t know what to expect coming here and making my first ever World Series tournament final was very special. Obviously I’m disappointed to lose but think it was a good match.”
