Squash began at Harrow School in England around 1830, when boys playing rackets used a softer ball that squashed on impact and named the game.
The timeline covers the first purpose-built court at Harrow in 1864, the World Squash Federation founded in 1967, the Pakistani, Australian and now Egyptian eras of dominance, and the point-a-rally scoring adopted in 2004.
Key Facts
| Where does squash come from? | Harrow School in England, around 1830. Boys playing rackets used a softer ball that squashed on impact, which gave the game its name. |
| When was the first court built? | 1864 at Harrow, the first purpose-built squash court and the start of standardised dimensions. |
| Who governs it? | The World Squash Federation, founded in 1967. |
| Is it Olympic? | It will be. Squash is on the programme for Los Angeles 2028 after several failed bids. |
| Which countries dominate? | Egypt above all others today, after long periods of Pakistani and Australian dominance. |
| What changed the sport most? | Point-a-rally scoring to 11, adopted in 2004 for professionals. Matches became shorter and far easier to schedule for television. |
Squash History Summary
- ⏳ Origins and Evolution: Squash traces its beginnings to the 19th century in England, originating from the game of rackets. Developed at Harrow School, the sport evolved into its distinct form with specialized rules, courts, and equipment.
- 🚀 Rise to Prominence: Squash’s popularity spread across the globe throughout the 20th century, reaching countries like the USA, Canada, and Egypt. Intense competition, legendary players, and prestigious championships contributed to the sport’s allure and fame.
- 🥇 Noteworthy Growth and Adaptation: Squash experienced considerable expansion, incorporating advancements in technology while maintaining its tradition. The sport’s adaptability and commitment to diversity and inclusion have secured its position as a cherished pastime and competitive activity worldwide.
Timeline
| Year | What Happened |
|---|---|
| 1830s | Harrow pupils play rackets with a softer ball against the school walls and invent squash by accident. |
| 1864 | The first purpose-built squash courts are constructed at Harrow, four of them beside the rackets courts. |
| 1911 | The Titanic is fitted with a squash court, a fair measure of how fashionable the game had become. |
| 1920s | The first international competitions are played and national associations form in Britain and North America. |
| 1930 | The British Open begins and serves as the sport’s world championship for decades. |
| 1950s to 1970s | Hashim Khan and the Khan family of Pakistan dominate the British Open almost without interruption. |
| 1967 | The World Squash Federation is founded and one rulebook replaces the British and American versions. |
| 1980s to 1990s | Jahangir Khan goes unbeaten for five years, the longest winning run recorded in any professional sport. |
| 2004 and 2023 | Point-a-rally scoring is adopted, and squash is voted onto the Olympic programme for 2028. |
Jahangir Khan’s unbeaten run from 1981 to 1986 covers 555 consecutive matches. No professional athlete in any sport has since come close to it, and it is the single fact most often quoted about squash.
Squash needs a four-walled court and nothing else. See the full indoor sports list for the other sports built for indoor space.
1830s
The origins of squash can be traced back to around 1830 at Harrow School in England. Students began playing a variation of the game of rackets, using racquets with a softer rubber ball, which “squashed” upon impact. This new game required different strategies and techniques compared to rackets.
Initially, squash was played against the outside walls of the school buildings. Gradually, newly adapted courts were built, with players constructing makeshift boundaries using lines, ropes, and wooden groundwork to form the playing area.
1864
In 1864, the first purpose-built squash court was constructed at Harrow School. This development marked a significant step in the evolution of the sport and helped standardize squash court dimensions. The first four squash courts were built alongside the existing rackets courts at Harrow School, providing a dedicated space with more accurate boundaries for playing squash.
With its own dedicated courts, the sport’s popularity spread to other English schools, universities, and eventually to the broader public. Squash clubs began to emerge, further promoting the game and establishing it as an official sport.
1911 – 1920s
By 1911, the Titanic had squash courts installed on the ship, making it the first ship to include such facilities, showcasing the popularity of the sport. In the following years, squash enjoyed rapid growth within the British Empire and across the globe. The first international competitions took shape in the 1920s, including matches between rival clubs from England and the United States.
During this period, squash witnessed an increase in organized championships and the establishment of the Men’s British Open, considered the most prestigious title for a squash player. The competition attracted a global audience and cemented the sport’s place in the international scene.
1940s
The 1940s marked the birth of the International Squash Rackets Federation (ISRF) in 1947, known today as the World Squash Federation (WSF). Founded by representatives from Australia, England, South Africa, and New Zealand, the ISRF aimed to standardize squash rules and court dimensions across countries while fostering global cooperation and competition in the sport.
This international governing body oversaw developments in squash, including the organization of world championships and the establishment of various regional squash organizations such as the United States Squash Racquets Association (USSRA).
1960s
The inaugural Women’s World Squash Championships took place in 1966, elevating the sport’s appeal to a broader audience and demonstrating its commitment to inclusiveness. The event showcased female talent in the sport, further popularizing squash across various demographics.
During this decade, squash legends such as Heather McKay, Jonah Barrington, and Geoff Hunt dominated the sport, setting records, and leaving lasting impressions on squash’s history and growth.
1980s – 1990s
The 1980s and 1990s saw significant technological advancements in squash, including the development of lighter, more powerful racquets and improved court designs. These innovations revolutionized the game, making it faster and more intense.
During this period, Pakistan’s Jahangir Khan dominated the sport, winning 10 British Open titles and setting a record with an unbeaten 555 match streak. This era also witnessed the rise of legendary players like Jansher Khan, Sarah Fitz-Gerald and Susan Devoy, further solidifying squash’s appeal and prestige.
2000s
The 21st century brought the Professional Squash Association (PSA) World Tour, attracting international players and fostering competitive professionalism within the sport. The introduction of instant video review technology improved decision-making during matches and reduced on-court controversies.
During this era, Egyptian players like Amr Shabana, Ramy Ashour, and Nicol David emerged, dominating the professional circuit and inspiring a new generation of players from various countries.
FAQ
Who invented Squash?
Squash was invented in 1830 by the students at Harrow School in England. They discovered that a punctured ball, which “squashed” on impact with the wall, produced a game with a greater variety of shots.
How did Squash become so popular?
Squash’s popularity grew due to its intense, fast-paced gameplay, and low equipment investment. It steadily gained followers globally with organized competitions and professional structures.
Where did Squash originate?
Squash originated at Harrow School in England. The school had peculiarly built courts where students started playing the sport that later evolved into modern-day squash.
