Franklin Reflects on a Landmark 2026 STARR Bermuda Open
IslandStats.com
The 2026 STARR Bermuda Open concluded this weekend at the Bermuda Squash Club, leaving the local sporting community with a poignant mix of "athletic brilliance and heartbreaking drama," according to Head of Squash Micah Franklin. While the tournament showcased some of the finest squash ever seen on the island, it was defined by a cruel injury to a top seed and a marathon men’s final that tested the physical limits of its competitors.
The women’s final witnessed what former club president Stephen Young described as a "tragic way to end a truly amazing week". Top seed and world No. 19 Sabrina Sobhy appeared to be cruising toward the championship with a commanding two-set lead over second seed Nadine Shahin.
However, with the score tied at 7-7 in the third game, Sobhy suffered a sudden injury—identified as an Achilles issue—and was forced to retire on home soil.
"We are absolutely gutted and heartbroken for Sabrina for that to have happened on our home soil," Franklin reflected. "It’s never easy to watch, but seeing it live and seeing her go through it has been really challenging".
Despite the injury, Franklin noted that Sobhy gained an "endless amount" of supporters in Bermuda who have reached out to check on her recovery. The retirement handed the title to world No. 47 Shahin, who secured the crown after a week of clinical progression.
On the men’s side, the final provided a "marathon spectacle" as world No. 24 Miguel Rodriguez upset the top-seeded Kareem El Torkey. In a see-saw encounter, Rodriguez took an early lead before El Torkey struck back to lead 2-1.
The Colombian second seed found a second wind in the fourth set to force a decider, eventually sealing a 3-2 victory (11-5, 7-11, 9-11, 11-5, 11-7). Franklin, who saw Rodriguez finish as runner-up in the previous year's event, expressed immense personal satisfaction with the result.
"I’m personally really happy with the outcome," Franklin said. "Miguel Rodriguez has been here multiple times... this year he went one better. Really happy for him".
Beyond the individual results, the tournament was hailed as a significant success for the Bermuda Squash Club.
Capacity Crowds: The event saw full attendance every night, creating a "buzz" around the sport on the island.
Global Reach: The tournament attracted 48 world-class players from nations including Egypt, Israel, South Africa, and New Zealand.
Youth Impact: Franklin noted that seeing elite play on home soil was "impactful" for junior members, who are now "rushing to book the first court".
As the 2026 edition draws to a close, the focus for Bermuda Squash turns toward the future. "The goal is to try and figure out how do we build it for the future," Franklin concluded, following a week that solidified Bermuda's place on the professional squash circuit.
