October 19, 2005 20:32 PM

PM Sends Congrats To Nicol

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 19 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Wednesday sent a letter of congratulation to Nicol David for winning the prestigious British Open squash title on Monday.

The Prime Minister's office called Nicol's father Desmond David to convey Abdullah's message and later faxed the letter signed by Abdullah to him.

According to an aide to the Prime Minister, Abdullah was very pleased and proud of Nicol's achievement in Manchester.

The aide said that in the letter, the Prime Minister expressed his appreciation and hoped Nicol would become a role model and share her rich experiences with the younger generation.

The Prime Minister also stated that "Saya amat tertarik dan berbangga dengan kejayaan Nicol (I'm thrilled and proud of your achievement, Nicol)."

The 22-year-old Nicol, the world number three, beat world number four Natalie Grinham in straight sets 9-6, 9-7, 9-6 to become the first Malaysian and Asian to win the British Open title.

Nicol had also beaten world number one Rachael Grinham, who is Natalie's sister, in the semi-final.

Since turning professional in 2000, Nicol had gradually climbed the rankings.

Last year she started in eighth position and steadily moved to third in the world after setting up her training base in Amsterdam, Holland.

She is coached by Liz Irwing, a former champion from Australia.

Nicol will head to the United States to compete in the US Open before taking part in the Qatar Classic from Nov 21-27 and the World Women's Open in Hong Kong from Nov 29-Dec 4.

Due to her commitments, she will not participate in the Manila SEA Games from Nov 27-Dec 5.

-- BERNAMA

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