Last week the renowned Dam square in Amsterdam – a popular tourist zone in the Dutch capital – was the scene of a unique and spectacular squash event. With support of the Amsterdam city council and the Dutch Olympic Committee, a full glass court was erected in front of the Royal Palace to promote the Forexx Women’s World Open Squash 2009, which takes place later this month (20-27 September) in the Netherlands.
In a repeat of the historic 2007 Women’s World Open final, squash stars Natalie and Rachael Grinham played each other in the so called unofficial final of the Forexx Women’s World Open Squash 2009. Two years ago in Madrid, Rachael beat her younger sister Natalie to become World Champion for the first time and this year her sister wants revenge.
But with many other strong contenders in the draw – like reigning champion Nicol David, England’s Alison Waters, Jenny Duncalf and Laura Massaro, Egypt’s Omneya Abdel Kawy and Irish champion Madeline Perry – another Grinham Sisters final is still far away.
To provide Natalie – who’s now representing the Netherlands – the chance to have another crack at her sister – who’s still carrying the Australian flag – a full glass court was erected at one of the busiest locations in Amsterdam. The event was branded the unofficial final as it was Sister vs. Sister and Netherlands vs. Australia.
This time the younger half of the Toowoomba Twosome prevailed - winning 12-10 in the third game – therefore gaining revenge over her sister to give the host nation a confidence boost ahead of the premier event on the Women’s International Squash Players Association (WISPA) World Tour.
A 2-minute video clip of the unofficial final match between Natalie and Rachael Grinham can be found on www.womensworldopen.com. Further information about the Forexx Women’s World Open Squash 2009 – which starts next weekend at the well-known Frans Otten Stadion in Amsterdam – can also be found on the official tournament website.