In a gripping final, top seed Nick Spizzirri (left) of the USA defeated Pakistan’s Muhammad Huzaifa Ibrahim (right) in the final of the EMCs Tortola Classics played at Tortola Sports Club on Friday, May 8, 2026. Photo: Provided

Some of the squash players in the Virgin Islands. Photo: Provided

Spizzirri claimed the title, 11-13, 11-1, 11-9, 8-11, 11-5, in an action-packed final that lasted 67 minutes.

No quarters were given early in the 1st game, with both players looking to control the midcourt. The quality was high, and there really was nothing in it all the way to a tie break. Muhammad found a couple of thunderous low dying lengths to close out the game.

Spizzirri responded well at the start of the second and, after taking an early lead, ran away with the game 11-1. The 3rd was back to being more nip and tuck. Just at the back end of the game, a couple of tins from Muhammad proved costly as Nick closed it out 11-9 for a 2-1 lead.

Muhammad fights back!

Spizzirri lost his length a touch at the start of the 4th and Muhammad capitalised with more powerful winners to forge a 5-1 lead. Nick got back as close as 8-9; however, Muhammad held on to force a 5th game.

The 5th game started at a furious pace with both players bringing a high quality. Spizzirri managed to maintain that pace and sharpness without any unforced errors, and also whilst finding a few nice finishes. From 4-4, this allowed him to take 4 quick points, which did the damage.

Spizzirri went on to take the game 11-5 and with that the Championship.