Dewald van Niekerk sets sights on fifth consecutive national squash title
As Dewald van Niekerk eyes a historic fifth consecutive title and Alex Commins chases her sixth, the Growthpoint Senior Squash Nationals promise thrilling action at Cape Town’s Makers Landing V&A Waterfront. Don’t miss this showdown of squash excellence!
Dewald van Niekerk Defending men’s champion Dewald van Niekerk will be out to set a new mark in South African squash when he targets his fifth straight title in the Growthpoint Senior Nationals championships to take place at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Photo: Petri Oeschger
Image: Photo: Petri Oeschger
The stage is set for the defending men's squash champion, Dewald van Niekerk, to make history by clinching an unprecedented fifth consecutive title at the Growthpoint Senior Nationals championships.
Scheduled to kick off on Thursday at Makers Landing on the iconic V&A Waterfront in Cape Town at 12 noon, the tournament promises to be a defining moment in South African squash.
The 28-year-old talent from Gqeberha has firmly established himself as one of the sport's most formidable competitors. Since winning his first national title in 2021, he has not only dominated the competition but stands poised to break Steve Coppinger’s long-held record of four straight championships.
Van Niekerk's focus is set not just on defending his title but also on writing his name indelibly in the annals of South African squash history. “Amazingly, I can defend my national championship title,” Van Niekerk expressed, reflecting his determination. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to defend the title that I won last year. Now I’m chasing a record for winning five titles in a row.”
This seasoned athlete is no stranger to pressure; in 2015, he reached a world ranking of No. 14, a testament to his extensive skill set and dedication to the sport. As he enters the tournament with the weight of expectation on his shoulders, the odds seem decidedly in his favour for yet another triumph.
“I’m feeling positive and confident. I will go out and play. I will not worry too much about external factors,” he added, demonstrating his mental resilience. With a meticulous training routine behind him, Van Niekerk is not only prepared for this championship but also for other competitions slated in the near future. “The main part is that I don’t have too much stress, but I will enjoy the opportunity,” he concluded.
While the spotlight shines on Van Niekerk, attention also turns to the women’s competition, where Cape Town's Alex Commins is ready to make her mark. A former professional player with a career-best world ranking of 22, Commins is in pursuit of her sixth national title, adding an engaging storyline to the tournament.
Commins first claimed victory in 2015 with a gripping 3-2 match against Cheyna Tucker (now Wood), marking the start of a remarkable legacy. Though her professional demands have occasionally thwarted her participation in the Growthpoint Nationals, her resilience has allowed her to secure multiple titles, including wins in 2018, 2020, 2022, and 2024.
As the tournament approaches, Commins steps onto the court with renewed determination, eager to extend her already impressive winning streak. Her journey exemplifies the spirit of perseverance that is central to the essence of squash.
With both Van Niekerk and Commins gunning for glory, anticipation builds for spectators at the V&A Waterfront, who can expect a riveting display of talent and tenacity. As the countdown to the tournament begins, all eyes will be fixed on these champions, who personify the competitive nature and vibrant spirit of South African squash.