Peruvian squash star Diego Elias has credited Spanish tennis great Rafael Nadal as one of the biggest influences on his career, saying the former world No. 1 inspired him to battle for every point and never give up during matches.
In an exclusive interview, Elias reflected on the values that shaped his rise from a young squash enthusiast in Peru to one of the sport’s biggest names. The 28-year-old revealed that both his father and Nadal played key roles in developing the competitive mindset that helped him reach the pinnacle of professional squash.
Elias has emerged as a trailblazer for squash in Peru, becoming the first South American player to reach the summit of the world rankings. His achievements have helped raise the profile of the sport across the continent and inspired a new generation of athletes in the region.
The Peruvian star said he admired Nadal’s relentless approach on court, highlighting the Spaniard’s determination and refusal to surrender even in difficult situations. Those qualities, Elias noted, have been central to his own success on the PSA Tour.
With squash set to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, Elias is now focused on chasing the biggest prize of his career. The world-class player believes the inclusion of squash in the Olympic programme represents a historic opportunity for athletes in the sport and could significantly boost its global popularity.
Having already broken barriers for South American squash, Elias hopes to continue inspiring future generations while pursuing Olympic glory. His journey from Peru to the top of the sport stands as a testament to perseverance, passion and the influence of sporting role models such as Nadal.
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