Nicol's A Legend, Says Sports Fraternity

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 19 (Bernama) -- Malaysian squash queen Nicol Ann David’s decision to retire in June caught many local sports fans by surprise, but many also were quick to offer words of encouragement to the former world champion on social media on Tuesday. Just as supportive were fellow athletes, both local and foreign, as they all wished Nicol, who will turn 36 in August, all the best. Former Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin, via his Twitter account @Khairykj, thanked Nicol for lifting the country’s name in the world of squash. “Thank you for everything, Nicol. Greatest of all time. One of Malaysia’s most outstanding daughters. It was an honour to serve you,” he said. Instagram account holder of @mysecretreasure, wrote that although he was sad to hear news of her pending retirement, he still respected Nicol’s decision. “It’s really sad to learn this but I respect your decision. All the best Nicol! You are indeed a legend! Your smile and determination have inspired so many people!” he said. Another Instagrammer @nanafzl thanked Nicol for her 20-odd years of service to the country as an athlete. “Thank you for your 20 years of service Nicol. You are truly the best, the legendary. You have done a super job as a sportsman. Thank you for your lovely performances. Hope you’ll enjoy every minute of your retirement. You will be missed but never forgotten. Always our Queen of Squash,” she wrote. Nicol, who uploaded her retirement status on her Instagram account, also received comments from other renowned squash players, like Egypt’s Raneem El Weleily, who described the Penangite as a legend. “No words will ever be enough, end of a legendary era,” said Raneem. Another Egyptian player, Ramy Ashour felt the same and described Nicol as a legend who will continue to be an inspiration in the world of sports. Young Egyptian player Mariam Metwally wrote: “A history that will live on forever, congratulation on an unforgettable journey legend.” Nicol has decided to call time on her career, which has spanned over two decades, at the end of the 2018/2-19 Professional Squash Association (PSA) season in June. Nicol, who was once ranked world number one for nine years, said she had given the matter a lot of thought and insisted that this would be her last season. -- BERNAMA