Gohar Grabs Monte Carlo Jackpot

Egyptian teenager Nouran Gohar grabbed the biggest title of her life - and maintained her unbeaten record in WSA World Tour finals - when she upset experienced compatriot and former champion Omneya Abdel Kawy in the final of the Women's Monte Carlo Classic at Stade Louis II in Monaco.

The 19th staging of the WSA Silver 25 squash event produced its first all-Egyptian final - and one of the longest.

Fourth seed Abdel Kawy, the world No11 and champion in 2010, was unable to convert four game balls in the opening game as underdog Gohar, the 17-year-old world No22, took an early lead.

The second again went to a tie-break, but this time Abdel Kawy prevailed to draw level.

After the next two games were shared, the capacity crowd was treated to a dramatic decider. Eighth seed Gohar reached match ball at 10-6 - but Abdel Kawy took the next three points in a row to reduce the deficit before Gohar converted her fourth chance to win the title for the first time after 73 minutes.

"Because we know each other's games, and as Omneya has got very good experience in this kind of match, I tried to change my game and put her under pressure," said Cairo-based Gohar after her 15-13, 10-12, 11-7, 7-11, 11-9 triumph.

"I like this tournament - especially now that I have won my first big title here!"

The Monte Carlo success marks the third WSA Tour title of Gohar's career.