The 2025 Central Open wrapped up in style over the weekend, with SquashGym Palmerston North playing host to one of the region’s biggest events of the year. A strong field of 150 players took to the courts across 22 divisions, delivering a fantastic weekend of squash filled with quality match play, hard-fought rallies, and great energy throughout the venue.

A huge thank you goes to the team at SquashGym for their superb organisation and warm hospitality, and to InspireNet for their ongoing support as tournament sponsor. Their contribution helped create a top-notch event that players and supporters alike thoroughly enjoyed.

Finals day brought plenty of excitement, with the Open divisions providing a fitting climax to the weekend. The Men’s Open division came down to the wire, with some tightly contested battles across the winners’ round. Each of the three players picked up a win, meaning the title was ultimately decided on a countback. In a standout match, Kashif Shuja fought back from two games down to defeat Matt Nation in a gripping five-setter. However, it was Matt Nation’s consistent performance and game score advantage that saw him come out on top, claiming the 2025 Central Open Men’s title.

In the Women’s Open final, Holly Shuja and Danielle Cooley went toe-to-toe in a closely contested four-setter. Cooley’s consistency and tactical precision proved the difference, as she edged out Shuja to secure the 2025 Women’s Central Open title.

With such strong participation and a great atmosphere on and off the court, the Central Open continues to be a standout on the Squash Central calendar. Congratulations to all players, finalists, and division winners – and here’s to another successful event in the books!