KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s squash standout S Sivasangari ended a 13-month wait for a title by lifting the Australian Open trophy in Brisbane today.
The tournament favourite swept past United States’ Marina Stefanoni in a 28-minute final at South Bank Piazza, winning 11-7, 11-4, 11-8. The victory extends Sivasangari’s perfect record against Stefanoni to three matches, with the Malaysian, ranked sixth globally, remaining unbeaten against her 19th-ranked opponent.
Sivasangari secured her place in the final by defeating Belgium’s Nele Gilis, ranked 12th in the world, in straight games, 11-8, 13-11, 11-4, over a 50-minute semi-final. Stefanoni reached the decider with a 3-1 victory over fellow Belgian Tinne Gilis (11-8, 4-11, 11-3, 11-8).
This triumph marks Sivasangari’s 16th PSA Tour title and her second Gold-level win, following her victory at the Cincinnati Gaynor Cup in February last year.
Speaking after the win, Sivasangari, who trains in Prague under former world champion Gregory Gaultier, reflected on the pressure of being the top seed.
“I came in as the number one seed, which rarely happens in a Gold event. There was a bit more pressure on me compared to the other players,” she said.
“I just tried to stay composed and focus on my squash. I really enjoyed the tournament and I’m thrilled to have won.
“It was a long match in the semifinal, which helped me get used to the court in the final.
“I knew I needed a quick start today, and it worked. I’m delighted to add another Gold-level title to my record and hope to continue this form to climb the world rankings.”
Sivasangari completed the tournament without dropping a single game. Earlier this year, the 27-year-old reached the Karachi Open final, losing to world number three Amina Orfi of Egypt.
Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) coaching director Andrew Cross lauded Sivasangari’s consistency, highlighting her mental resilience and tactical sharpness throughout the week. – March 15, 2026