Alex Gough: How Pickleball and Padel Could Cause Participation Surge for Squash with PSA CEO

Today’s episode, I’m joined by Alex Gough, CEO of the
Professional Squash Association.


With a career spanning 15 years on the professional circuit, Alex
climbed the ranks to reach number 5 in the world. Along the way,
he also secured 10 World Tour titles and a Bronze Medal at the
1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur.


His contributions to squash extend far beyond the court,
however. His dedication to the sport led him to join the PSA
as a Board Director in 2002, while still an active player.
Following his retirement, he has transitioned seamlessly into
leadership roles, first as Chief Operating Officer in 2008, and
then taking the helm as CEO in 2009.


In our conversation today, we delve into Alex's role at the
forefront of the PSA, the global governing body responsible for
the administration of professional squash worldwide. He’s got a
lot on his plate. With over 1,000 registered players and 600
events annually, the PSA World Tour, the PSA Challenger Tour, and
the WSF & PSA Satellite Tour, the PSA aspire to showcase
squash at its pinnacle. And they do so in some breathtaking
locations around the globe.


Time Stamps


2:00 - Alex’s Journey into his current role as CEO of the PSA


3:30 - Transitioning from Player to a Governance/ Executive Role
in Sport


6:30 - Overview of the Current Squash Calendar


12:00 - Communication with Current Players and Understanding
their Needs


13:30 - Discussion on Managing both Men's and Women's Tours


15:00 - Implementing Equal Prize Money


19:00 - Insights into Commercial Deals, including Sponsors like
JP Morgan


21:00 - Egypt's Dominance in Producing Top-Quality Squash Players


23:00 - Exploration of Outdoor Events and their Appeal


27:00 - Utilising Social Media to Attract New Audiences


31:00 - The Popularity of Pickleball and Padel, and the
Opportunities for Squash


38:00 - Implications of squash being included in the Olympics


41:00 - Future aspirations and ambitions for the PSA leading up
to LA 2028


Additional Links


Professional Squash Association celebrates 50th anniversary


Cricket, squash among six sports added to 2028 L.A. Olympics


Video: Playing Squash at the Olympics


Connect with Alex on LinkedIn - Here


Connect with Andy on LinkedIn - Here