PSA Celebrates Historic Million Dollar Saudi Agreement With Ziad Al-Turki

Just a week after announcing a major three-year deal in Kuwait, the Professional Squash Association has finalised a record agreement in professional squash worth more than one million US dollars in Saudi Arabia.

Ziad Al-Turki, promoter of the Saudi International, has confirmed an historic five-year deal with the PSA to present four Super Series Platinum tournaments (in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2011) - each with total minimum prize funds of US$182,500 - and the 2010 Men's World Open at a minimum of US$322,500.

"Since Ziad and the Atco Group's first Super Series Platinum tournament in 2005, his enthusiasm and drive to better our sport have been second to none," said PSA Chief Executive Gawain Briars. "This agreement is definitive proof of his commitment to markedly accelerate the standards of events and the incomes of professional players.

"We owe a lasting debt of gratitude to Ziad in coming forward with this agreement, which signals his and Saudi Arabia's anchoring at the heart of the professional game. He has lifted the beacon for others to follow.

"Not only will this news raise the profile of squash in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East but, as with many benefactors in sport, Ziad has confirmed his intention that all profits raised from the events will be donated to a handicap charity within Saudi Arabia," added Briars.

"This has been a tumultuous last few days for professional squash. The Middle East has clearly signalled its intention to drive up standards in the game by presenting the biggest tournaments in the world in memorable venues appreciated by both players and audiences.

"PSA salutes this visionary and inspiring commitment to our sport."

Briars also noted the "huge" contribution of Robert Edwards. After more than twenty years on the tour, the PSA World Tour Technical Director is retiring from his position at the Men's World Open in Bermuda at the end of this year.

"Not only has Robert recently been key in delivering the Kuwait and Saudi Arabia agreements, but during his career he has been instrumental in sourcing over US$5 million worth of events for the circuit. This is a remarkable achievement over such a period, and one which all players respect with gratitude," explained the PSA CEO.

"Although he will still direct and present in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, PSA thanks Robert for his commitment to the cause over twenty wonderful years on the circuit. He will be missed by players, promoters, fans and audiences."