Fram Gommendy reports:
Back in May 2024, Santa Barbara School of Squash Executive Director Robert Graham decided to start a FB page. And “Squash for Good“ was born.
Robert Graham, from FB Squah for Good: ‘I am delighted to welcome another former world #1 and world champion to our Meet A Pro series…the legend that is Grégory Gaultier!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Greg!’
1) What years did you compete professionally and what was your highest ranking?
I started in 1999 and ended in 2021. My best ranking was No1 in the world.
2) Top highlight of your career?
Winning the World Championship in 2015.
3) Favorite tournament(s) you played in and why?
The ToC (Tournament of Champions) … playing in Grand Central Station (in New York)…it is always packed and a great atmosphere.
4) Favorite memory(ies) from the tour?
Traveling all over the world, making friends, and living my childhood dream of being a pro squash player.
5) Who was the toughest opponent of your career and why?
Ramy Ashour with the pace he always played at.
6) Where are you from originally?
I was born in Epinal (northeast France).
7) Age when you first started playing and what/who got you into it?
I started at 4 or 5 years old, my mother was the manager of a club with 4 courts.
😎 Where do you live now and what are you doing?
I live in Prague and I coach.
9) Do you still play?
I still play for fun but I don’t compete, I’m too busy with coaching, I do spar with a few players.
10) A former or current player you admire that might surprise people?
Jansher Khan was the first I remember watching, then a few others like Jon Power, Thierry Lincou, and Amr Shabana.
11) A coach of any era you admire and why?
I admire any coach who is really passionate, I like to talk with them and exchange ideas.
12) Advice to an up-and-coming Pro?
The best talent is discipline.
13) Thoughts on financing a professional career in squash?
It depends where you are from…some have the advantages of decent funding from their federations or countries and some don’t, so you have to create your own network and connect well with people to open doors and eventually be helped in that way.
14) Thoughts on the future of squash and its Olympics inclusion?
It is great to finally be part of the Olympic family. I hope it will help the sport grow. It’s great exposure for squash and hope it will be a success and stay part of future Olympics.
15) Best general squash advice to anyone?
Enjoy it to the max!
