England's Jenny Duncalf to retire at end of season

England’s Jenny Duncalf has announced she will retire from professional squash at the end of the season.

In a career spanning two decades, Haarlem-born Duncalf earned 133 caps for England, won three Commonwealth Silver medals, and was part of the England team who won the 2006 Women’s World Team Championships and the European Team Championships ten times.

The 36-year-old who turned professional in 1999, spent 29 months at World No.2 and was a finalist at the British Open in 2008 and the PSA World Championships in 2011.

Duncalf said:

“It’s time. Conflicted feelings and motivation about the sport I loved have led to tough times, but to call it a day was always frightening in a way, and part of me always hoped maybe I could rekindle something that would leave me satisfied enough to say goodbye.

“But I am realistic and content enough now to know that that the time has come, and looking back on my career, I am at peace and happy with what I achieved and the career I have had. I am so grateful for what the sport has given me and those moments that I loved so much, playing for my country, competing, winning, losing, battling is what makes it hard to end it all. Those days are long gone now, and new pastures lay ahead.

“If someone had told me at nine years old [I] would be England captain, gain 100+ caps and reach No.2 in the world and every major championship final behind Nicol David, I would have [almost] taken it. One major would have been nice, I did what I could though, and I like to think that I am proud of the player I was, always fair, hopefully enjoyable to watch at times, and I helped others when I could off the court. I have no regrets and couldn’t have done anything more than I did.

“The World Tour is going from strength to strength, and I am happy to step out of it in such a healthy state. I will continue to give back as best as I can through my role as PSA Women’s President until the next elections, and am excited to still be a part of it firsthand as an MC.”

Keir Worth, CEO at England Squash said:

“On behalf of England Squash, I would like to extend our thanks and congratulations to Jenny for all that she has achieved for England Squash on the world stage. We wish her the very best in her future endeavours."

David Campion, England National Coach added:

"Jenny has been a major force in world squash over the past two decades, having enjoyed a huge amount of success along the way, both individually and with the England teams.

"It’s fantastic to see she is still involved in the sport she loves, and I wish her all the very best in whatever direction this takes her.“

We have shared so much together. So many special memories. How we have laughed and had fun over all these years! Many more to come as well. So proud of you for all you have achieved in your fantastic career. My best friend ?? pic.twitter.com/z9NRdqplmh

— Alison Waters (@Aliwat1) May 2, 2019

Such an amazing career you’ve had and was fun growing up together competing since the British Juniors Under-14’s til now. Thanks for the fond memories on court & to know you as the kind friendly person you always are on tour. All the best to you! Cheers ?? ?????? https://t.co/mn7jiF7IBu

— Nicol Ann David (@NicolDavid) May 2, 2019

What an brilliant career you’ve had Jen. The smoothest of squash players and brilliant to watch. Huge Good Luck for the future and thanks for the amazing memories since we were young! @jennyduncalf https://t.co/AA038VgfrB

— Laura Massaro (@ljmassaro) May 2, 2019