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Scholarships, travelling, networking: The perks of playing squash
What you need to know:
- Muqtadir Nimji is a top squash player in Kenya.
- Born on September 8, 1999, Muqtadir attended Peponi Preparatory School and Peponi Secondary School in Nairobi, and the University of Birmingham in England where he graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Physics.
- Apart from playing, the multiple Kenya Open champion is also nurturing the next generation of local squash players.
Muqtadir Nimji is a top squash player in Kenya. Known in squash circles in Kenya as Muqs, Muqtadir has been to England, India, France, Australia, Canada, USA, Bermuda, Netherlands, Uganda and Brazil because of squash.
How did your squash journey begin, and what sparked your passion for it?
I started playing when I was about four years old. My parents introduced me to the sport. My dad, Sadruddin Nimji, was a highly ranked squash player in Kenya, and my mum, Sama Nimji, also played the sport. I don’t even remember my first day on court. It has just always been part of my life.
You’ve been to various international tournaments like the US Junior Open and Commonwealth Games, which match or moment stands out as a turning point in your career?
The 2022 Commonwealth Games were huge for me. I was studying at the University of Birmingham at the time, so I got to represent both Kenya and my university. It was my first time at the Commonwealth Games, and I loved the atmosphere. Meeting athletes like Ferdinand Omanyala was memorable. Another big moment was captaining Kenya at the 2022 Squash Federation of Africa Seniors Championships in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. We finished fourth — Kenya’s best position ever — and we beat Zambia for the first time.
You are now the captain of Kenya’s national team. What does that role mean to you?
Being captain is about guiding rather than commanding. I knew my teammates’ styles and personalities well, so I tried to help them like a peer rather than act like a coach. It created a collaborative and lovely team dynamic.
Your Professional Squash Association (PSA) career high, ranking 335, is a major feat in Africa, what did it take to reach that level, and what are your goals moving forward?
I reached that ranking in my first year and a half on the PSA tour, even while juggling university studies. I only played about five or six tournaments — you need around 10 for an accurate ranking. After a two-year break, I’ve decided to return to PSA events and fully commit. I believe I can go much higher than 335.
How do you see squash evolving in Kenya and across Africa?
Squash in Kenya is bouncing back after a slump. There’s a strong push from the grassroots — coaches like Abdul Aziz, Prince Mukuka, John Mbhuvi, and I are training juniors. The sport is on the rise.
What are the biggest challenges Kenyan squash players face, and how do we overcome them?
The lack of tournaments is a big hurdle. Hosting more events — especially PSA ones — brings exposure, motivates local players, and helps children see what is possible. We need to create platforms for players to compete regularly and at high levels.
At 25, you’re not just a player but a coach and junior manager too, how do you balance all these roles?
Initially, coaching was just something I did while helping with my parents' businesses. But over time, it grew on me. Now I’m taking it more seriously, especially since I train with high-level juniors. Often, I join training sessions, which creates a win-win situation. I stay sharp, and they get high-level experience. I love seeing them grow and enjoy the sport as much as I did.
What has squash given you personally?
So much. Fun, friends, mentors, and opportunities. I got scholarships for high school and in my first year at the university because of squash. It has also taken me to around 10 countries, including the UAE and Uganda. The community around squash is tight-knit and supportive. That is something I really value.
What is one thing you try to instill in your junior players, technically and mentally?
I always tell them to enjoy the game. If they’re having fun, they will be more open to learning and improving. I want them to love the game, not treat it like a burden.
What are your goals in the next five years as a player, coach, and squash ambassador?
As a player, I aim to break into the world’s top 30. As a coach, I want to develop squash in Kenya and help juniors gain the same opportunities I had. I am passionate about spreading the joy and career potential of squash.
If you could send one message to young Kenyan athletes considering squash, what would it be?
Give it a shot. Even if you don’t turn professional, you will gain fitness, friends, and opportunities. Squash can open doors. It has done that for me.
Tell us what your typical day looks like…
My day starts around 8am. I coach two players — one is a top junior I traveled with to India recently, and the other is someone I consider a mentor. I sometimes join their sessions for training. After a workout at home, I start academy sessions at around 3pm until 6.30pm. It is a busy but fulfilling day.
What else do you do apart from squash?
I help my parents with their businesses. I set up their websites, for example. I also tried remote sales, but right now squash is my priority. Additionally, I like to play padel tennis. I play in the Mara Padel League.
What did you study at Birmingham University, and does it help in your squash career?
I studied Physics. I don’t really use it now, except maybe for some problem-solving mindset. It’s more of a past chapter — my brother is more into STEM.
Do you have a family of your own?
No, it’s just me for now.
The 2028 Olympics will include squash. How massive is this for you and the squash community?
It’s huge. We’ve been pushing for Olympic inclusion for decades. It is a small draw — only 16 players — so it will be very tough for Kenyans to qualify in 2028. But it opens the door for future games. It is a milestone for the sport globally.
Is squash expensive to play in Kenya?
Not really. You can start with a second-hand racquet for around Sh3,000. Court fees at places like Parklands Sports Club are Sh250. It can be affordable for casual players, though it can get pricey if you go pro.
Tells us about your role model…
I adore retired Egyptian professional player Ramy Ashour. I love his attacking style of play, but also, he had an admirable attitude on and off the court. For sports in general, it would be Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt. I admire the way he always seems to be enjoying what he is doing and his big personality.
What advice would you give someone wanting to take up squash?
Play as much as you can. It is excellent for fitness. Beyond health, the squash community offers networking, fun, and fulfillment. There’s so much you can do on and off the court.