Malaysian Prime Minister Honours Nicol David

Nicol David, the Malaysian who has topped the women's world squash rankings unopposed since 2006, has been feted by the country's Prime Minister for her outstanding achievements.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak invited David to his office to congratulate the 28-year-old from Penang on creating history by winning a record sixth world title last month in the Netherlands. He hoped that her success would spur other athletes to excel in their respective sports.

"On behalf of the government and the people of Malaysia, I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to Nicol," he said.

"Nicol should be made a role model because she is the most successful sports icon in our country's history," added the prime minister.

He wished Nicol all the best and more success in the future, and said that it would set a high benchmark for the country's sports, especially squash.

David described the meeting with the prime minister as a truly meaningful event for her and her parents.

"It was a great honour for me and family to get the recognition of the government and Malaysians. Thank you for all the support," she said.

"I'm really grateful because without the support of the government, Sport Ministry, National Sports Council (NSC), SRAM and all the people back home, I wouldn't have achieved anything."