Squash Champion and current World number one Nick Matthew competed in the  Tournament of Champions in New York this week and Sport-locker.net grabbed a quick word with him…

Who was your hero growing up?

In squash it was Rodney Martin. More recently I have admired Chris Hoy and Jessica Ennis-Hill.

Who was your first coach?

Ron Hobson at the Pinegrove Club in Sheffield.

Do you collect anything?

Fridge magnets from places I’ve been with my wife.

Who is the greatest sportsman or woman to ever have played your sport?

Jahangir Khan (male) and Heather McKay (female) due to their unparalleled dominance of the sport in their respective eras.

Best player you’ve played against? Why?

Ramy Ashour, totally unique in everything he does. You never get a second’s respite and he gets the crowd on the edge of their seats.

Best player you’ve played with? Why?

Peter Nicol, when he changed allegiance from Scotland to play on the same England team as me I learned so much from him about professionalism and attention to detail in everything he did.

Who’s the best manager or coach you’ve played for?

David Pearson who was National Coach fore 15 years until 2010 and my personal coach since 1998.

Who is the greatest sportsman to represent your country?

In squash, Peter Nicol. In other sports Chris Hoy (for Team GB in the Olympics)

What’s the greatest moment of your career?

Winning my third world title in Manchester in 2013 

Do you have any superstitions?

Lots, including always putting my left shoe on first

If you weren’t a professional athlete, what would you be?

A sports journalist

Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

The most successful people are not those with the most talent but those who have the best work ethic.

What is your favorite song?

Kings of Leon – ‘Fans’

Last album you bought?

I had Rebecca Ferguson bought for me for Christmas!

What is your favourite box set?

Homeland

What is your favourite film?

The Usual Suspects

How many hours a week do you train?

It varies but over 20

What’s your favourite meal after you train or compete?

During competition I eat plenty of pasta and eggs, if I win I enjoy a steak to celebrate.

How do you keep fuelled during the day?

Porridge for breakfast, plenty of fluids, fruits & veg, pasta and protein

What are ten things you couldn’t live without?

1. My wife Esme

2. Friends & family

3. Bottle of water

4. Squash racket

5. Therband

6. Passport

7. Protein drink

8. Hockey ball

9. iPhone

10. Mum’s Sunday lunch including Yorkshire puddings!

Nick Matthew plays with the Biomimetic Evolution 130, available for £139.99. To view Dunlop’s full range of squash equipment and apparel, visit Sportsdirect.com

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