Mar Elshorbagy Captures Houston Open Title
by Sean Reuthe

photo PSA

May 16, 2016 - Egyptian number one seed Marwan Elshorbagy lifted the sixth PSA World Tour title of his career after downing compatriot Mohamed Abouelghar 3-1 in the final of the Houston Open, PSA M50 tournament.

Elshorbagy, who last month captured the Grasshopper Cup crown in what was the biggest tournament win of his career to date, battled past fellow Egyptian Mazen Hesham in a spectacular semi-final encounter, while Abouelghar overcame second seed Ryan Cuskelly to secure his final berth.

The early stages of the match saw Elshorbagy come out on top as he surged into a one-game lead, before Abouelghar, competing in his maiden PSA M50 final, fought back to restore parity in closely contested second game.

Things remained tight in the third with both players trading blows with gusto as they attempted to move the other off the ’T’. World No.7 Elshorbagy managed to edge narrowly ahead and he regained his lead with an 11-9 victory in the third.

With Abouelghar’s resistance finally broken, Elshorbagy romped to the win in the fourth for the loss of just three points to wrap up an 11-7, 9-11, 11-9, 11-3 triumph which sees him continue his impressive form of late.

"I’m happy to win my sixth PSA title here in Houston," said Elshorbagy.

"Words cannot describe how I’m feeling right now. It’s been an amazing season so far for me. Thanks everyone for the support, it means so much to me."

Result - Final: Houston Open 2016

[1] Marwan Elshorbagy (EGY) bt [4] Mohamed Abouelghar (EGY) 3-1: 11-7, 9-11, 11-9, 11-3 (51m)