Team England’s squash superstar Nick Matthew made his Commonwealth Games debut at Melbourne 2006 – coming fourth and narrowly missing out on medal glory. Four years later in Delhi, a determined Nick took both Gold medals for Men’s Singles and Doubles, a moment he cites as being one of his proudest sporting achievements.
Now a world squash champion with a place in the English Institute of Sport’s legendary Hall of Fame, Nick will be looking to defend both his Commonwealth Games titles in Glasgow this summer.
We caught up with Nick in his hometown of Sheffield, where he helped carry the Queen’s Baton on its epic journey back to Scotland.
How does it feel carrying the Queen’s Baton in your home town?
It was great to see how passionate everybody is about the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. People of all ages seem really excited!
The baton being in Sheffield has really inspired me, so the timing couldn’t have worked out any better. With just weeks to go until the Games, I’m really determined to make use of every last hour, every last day and get myself in the best shape.
You cut your holidays short to join the Queen’s Baton Relay in Sheffield. Was this something you just couldn’t miss out on?
I had to be here today! With the end of the squash season I’ve had a couple of weeks to freshen up, but now all roads lead to Glasgow.
You’re currently second in the world, and it could be an all-England Squash Final at Glasgow 2014. How do you mentally prepare for taking on your teammates?
At Delhi 2010 it was an unbelievable feat for Team England to win Gold, Silver and Bronze in the Men’s Singles. Our first priority is to achieve as a team and to top the medal table. Of course, if I can get my individual goals on the back of that, even better!
Reigning Commonwealth champion Nick and a whole host of the world’s best squash players will be battling for Gold at Glasgow 2014, where you can expect pace, excitement and a masterful display of skills and stamina. Buy your tickets now.
Reallocated seats will continue to be made available for public sale right up until Games Time so remember to keep checking the Ticketing website.