Nouran Gohar set for squash return at Qatar Classic after pregnancy absence

Nouran Gohar will return to competitive squash next month at the Qatar Classic, marking her first appearance in almost a year after taking time away from the sport because of pregnancy.

The Professional Squash Association (PSA) has confirmed that Gohar will make her comeback when the new season begins. The Qatar Classic, scheduled for September, will be the first tournament of her return.

Gohar, who was the world number one at the time she stepped away, will therefore resume her pursuit of international titles after a year-long absence from the professional circuit.

The Egyptian announced her pregnancy with her first child during the period away from competition. She is married to Ziad Elsissy, the world champion fencer.

Her return represents a significant moment for the women’s game, given the success Gohar enjoyed before her break. In May and June 2025, she won the Palm Hills Open, the British Open and the season-ending championship.

Her most recent tournament was the Egypt Open in September last year, where she was eliminated in the semi-finals. That appearance came before her decision to miss the following season because of her pregnancy.

Gohar has played 501 international matches during her career and has won 34 titles. She established herself as one of the leading players in the sport before moving away from competition, including a period as the world’s top-ranked player.

The Qatar Classic will provide her with the first opportunity to assess her level against the international field since that Egypt Open semi-final. Her participation also begins the next stage of a career that has already produced 34 tournament victories.

Squash is preparing for another major development, with the sport set to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. Gohar’s return comes as the sport moves towards that first Olympic appearance.

PSA announced the comeback on Monday, 10 August 2026, confirming that the Qatar Classic in September will be the opening event of Gohar’s return to the international calendar.