England’s Sarah-Jane Perry to bow out in style after British Open finale
England squash star Sarah-Jane Perry has today announced she will retire following the upcoming GillenMarkets British Open – bringing down the curtain on a remarkable international career that saw her earn her 100th cap during England’s triumphant European Team Championships win in Poland.
The 35-year-old sealed her place in history earlier this month as England edged out reigning champions Belgium 2-1 in a gripping final, marking her 100th appearance in an England shirt – a fitting milestone for one of the game’s greats.
A three-time British National champion and former world no.5, Perry has been a mainstay of England Squash for more than a decade. Perry has represented England at five World Team Championships, winning four medals, including Gold in 2014. She has also represented her country at two Commonwealth Games – on the Gold Coast in 2018 and in her hometown of Birmingham in 2022 – bringing home two silver medals and a bronze. Her latest triumph in Poland adds an incredible eighth European Team Championship gold to her collection.
“It doesn’t get much better than finishing like that, both personally with a win and an extremely hard-fought England team victory,” said Perry.
“The main emotion afterwards was just pride. I’m very proud of playing in 100 matches for England, especially as we’re such a strong squash nation. I haven’t had time yet to think about all my years in an England shirt, but I’m sure I’ll reflect more once I’ve finished playing after the British Open.
“Every time you play for England is special. Squash is an individual sport and most of the time you’re playing for your own interests. Being part of a team doesn’t happen all that often, so they are moments I’ll really cherish.”
Throughout her illustrious career, Perry made waves on the PSA Tour with some unforgettable performances. Back-to-back titles at the prestigious NetSuite Open in San Francisco (2017 and 2018) were followed by a show-stopping run at the Black Ball Open in Cairo in 2020, where she overcame world-class opposition – Camille Serme, Joelle King, and Hania El Hammamy – and battled back from two games down in the final to seize victory.
“The Black Ball win was the ultimate proof that I could do what a lot of people said I couldn’t – get to a physical level when I can put together victories back-to-back,” said Perry.
“My first San Francisco title was also particularly special as my nan had just passed away and she was a very big part of my life.”
Off court, Perry has been equally influential. Over the past six years, she has served as Women’s President and Board member of the PSA, as well as sitting on the Athletes’ Advisory Committee for Birmingham 2022 – playing a pivotal role in shaping the sport’s future.
“Joining the PSA Board was a steep learning curve but I’ve found it rewarding,” she reflected. “Leaving the sport in a better place than where you found it is really important and I think that’s what I’ve achieved.”
Perry also paid tribute to the many coaches and mentors who helped shape her journey – Steve Townsend, Sue Rose, Rob Owen, Jenny Denyer – along with the England Squash support team, including Chris Robertson, David Campion, Keith Barker, Rob Norman, and many more.
“The support from England Squash over the years has been massive,” she commented.
Chris Robertson, Talent and Performance Strategic Lead at England Squash said: “SJ has had a remarkable career and been an inspiration for England Squash in many ways. From being part of our World Teams and European successes to breaking into the top echelon of the world’s best players when many thought she couldn’t. Every player needs to back themselves and SJ had the belief, despite many challenges, and for that reason alone she has been a great role model for our next generation. I am sure she will take this confidence into the next chapter of her life.’’
Former National Coach David Campion echoed those sentiments, celebrating Perry’s legacy on and off court.
“SJ has enjoyed a truly wonderful career having reached the highest levels of the game.
“She’s a unique player, with incredible skills that made her a joy to watch. Matched with her fiercely competitive instincts, this made her a force to be reckoned with on her day. More importantly, she is a great friend to many, a caring soul who is always willing to help others. An exceptional person and player who played a major part in many of England’s successes over the years.”
Her long-time coach Rob Owen, who has guided her through the latter stages of her career, spoke with admiration and affection.
“SJ is one of the most talented people I’ve ever worked with. She played squash how I like it to be played; with flair, imagination and skill.
“She’s a real character, a unique individual. She challenges me as a coach, she’s very caring, bright and thoughtful. She is a fascinating character and I wouldn’t change a minute of the eight years we’ve worked together. Whatever she does next in the game, she will be a huge asset.”
Looking ahead, Perry will undergo surgery for a hip injury before taking a well-earned family holiday. Then, her focus will turn to coaching – especially supporting young girls at a crucial point in their sporting journey.
“I want to create an environment which combats that typical drop-off period in the teenage years,” said Perry. “I feel very lucky to have crossed paths with the network that has built up around me during my career and I’d like players of the future to feel that same kind of support too.”
