KUALA LUMPUR: The praises have poured in for national squash player S. Sivasangari who created history in winning the inaugural edition of the London Classic yesterday.
The world No. 13 said her social media accounts have been overwhelmed with positive comments from her fans.
Sivasangari urged Malaysians to continue supporting national squash players in their quest for success.
"My social media (accounts) have been blowing up ever since I beat (world No. 1) Nour El Sherbini," Sivasangari told PSA World Tour yesterday.
"Malaysian supporters are crazy and I love them. They are very supportive.
"Keep supporting Malaysian squash players, we will try our best every time we play on court."
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was among those who congratulated Sivasangari.
"I have been told that she is the first Malaysian to advance to a gold standard (competition) final in the PSA World Tour since Datuk Nicol David in 2015," said Anwar on social media today.
"Once again, congratulations. Hopefully this win will inspire more success in the future."
Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh also praised Sivasangari.
"Against all odds, she did it! Well done Sivasangari. Malaysia rejoices with you," said Yeoh on social media today.
Squash legend Nicol, who was proud of Sivasangari's achievements in London, also congratulated her.
"Woohoooo! Congratulations on an amazing win," said Nicol on social media.
In addition to scalping El Sherbini (Egypt) in the quarterfinals, Sivasangari also beat world No. 4 Nele Gilis (Belgium) in the semi-finals before downing world No. 2 Hania El Hammamy (Egypt) in the final.
Netizens also made their feelings clear on the NST Online Facebook page.
"Great game, great win. Congratulations to our new squash queen. You have made Malaysia proud," said Maya Krishnan.
"Olympic gold at Los Angeles 2028," said Faysal Mohd.
Sivasangari and Ng Eain Yow, both gold medallists at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year, have been earmarked as potential medallists for LA2028.
Squash will be making its Olympic debut then.