Doha, September 12 (QNA) - Executive Director of the Qatar Tennis, Squash, Padel and Badminton Federation Saad Al Mohannadi hailed the strong opening day of the 2026 QTerminals Qatar Classic squash tournament in Doha.

Al Mohannadi highlighted to Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the tournament's first day was marked by fierce contests, with 32 competitions being staged for both men and women, bringing together all world champions who had been welcomed in Qatar to participate.

The tournament features all the seeded players, both men and women, including a substantial number of past champions in Qatar over the years, Al Mohannadi noted, emphasizing that the tournament invariably begins with strong competition from the opening day.

Al Mohannadi added that the first day produced only one upset on the men's side, with Peru's Diego Elias, the tournament champion in 2021 and 2024, exiting the competition, while the remaining results were as expected, with the champions and seeded players advancing to the second round, which will be held Sunday.

In addition, Al Mohannadi said he was gratified with the global atmosphere surrounding this home-hosted event, in terms of record public participation and the incredible performances of the players.

He recalled that the players are quite grateful for the world-class organization and all the facilities that have been put in place to showcase their most prestigious performances in this kind of sport.

Public Relations Manager at the Qatar Padel Federation Ahmed Butti asserted that this tournament has been one of the foremost global events in terms of organization and professionalism, lauding all the combined efforts of the organizing committee to stage an ultimate championship in a manner befitting the State of Qatar's stature.

  Butti spoke to QNA, asserting that the organizing committee has been committed to having all equipment in place to ensure the success of the contests and provide the best experience for players, spectators and guests.

The tremendous participation of a collection of the world's best male and female players demonstrates the incredible standing of this tournament globally, Butti underscored.

Butti added that the first day's powerful kickoff, coupled with the record public presence, is a testament to the unmatched current edition. He stressed that work is underway to achieve the uppermost levels of success. (QNA)