Egypt’s Amina Orfi is set to become the youngest-ever women’s world number one in squash when the latest rankings are published on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in her rapidly ascending career. At 19 years and two months old, Orfi will surpass the previous record held by New Zealand’s Susan Devoy, who reached the top position at 20 years and two months in 1984.
Orfi's rise to the summit was secured following her victory at the Qatar Classic in Doha on Friday, where she defeated fellow Egyptian and reigning world number one Hania El Hammamy in a grueling 107-minute final. This win ended El Hammamy’s 11-month reign at the top of the sport.
This accomplishment caps an impressive year for Orfi, who also became the youngest women’s world champion earlier in 2026. Her success reinforces Egypt’s longstanding dominance in professional squash and positions her as a key figure heading into the sport’s Olympic debut scheduled for the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Reflecting on her achievements, Orfi described reaching both world champion and world number one status within the same year as “amazing” and a realization of a lifelong dream. Speaking recently, she outlined her ambitions to maintain her world title and secure qualification for the upcoming Olympic tournament, where she is widely viewed as a top contender for the gold medal.
Orfi’s ascent highlights a new generation of athletes poised to showcase squash on the Olympic stage, and her youth and skill set will be central to the sport’s global profile in the years ahead.
