Ravindu celebrates 11-year streak as SL Squash Champion

Ravindu Laksiri, the record-breaking Senior National Champion in squash for 11 consecutive years, is setting his sights on the global stage. The 43rd YETI-sponsored Senior National Squash Championship concluded with Laksiri’s historic win on Sunday, marking his dominance in the local squash arena.

“I’m thrilled to have become the champion for 11 years in a row, from 2013 to 2023,” said Laksiri, expressing his joy at the achievement. His triumph is not only a confirmation to his skills but also a result of dedicated practice and the support of his family.

While Laksiri’s success is remarkable, he aspires to elevate his game further by competing with the world’s top players and improving his world rankings in highly competitive global tournaments. His ambition is to be among the top hundred players and qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where squash will be featured.

Laksiri, currently ranked 137th globally, had reached a career-high rank of 120 in August but faced setbacks before the Senior National Squash Championship. He now plans to participate in the Indian PSA Tournament, hoping to secure a victory and boost his ranking.

Acknowledging the challenges he faces, Laksiri expressed his desire to train abroad, preferably in the UK or a European country, where squash competitions are intense, and he can play against top-level players. He believes that such an environment will contribute to his growth and improvement.

“Practicing in a foreign country would eliminate the need for me to spend a significant amount on participating in European tournaments while living in Sri Lanka. Staying there, I can focus on training and upgrading my world rankings,” Laksiri explained.

Despite financial constraints, Laksiri has been sponsored by Brandix, his employer, for overseas tournaments. He emphasizes the importance of participating in more tournaments to increase his chances of achieving a higher world ranking.

Expressing gratitude to his parents, brother, school (DS Senanayake College Old Boys Union), racquet sponsors, and Sri Lanka Squash officials, Laksiri is set to compete in the Indian PSA Tournament with Nevindu Lakman, aiming to secure the title.

Looking ahead, Laksiri targets breaking into the top 80 players globally in the coming year and hopes to participate in higher-tier tournaments with top 50 players. His strategic plan includes competing in 30K challenger tournaments and progressing to bronze, silver, and platinum tournaments, which offer double points and present an opportunity to climb the rankings.

With determination and a clear roadmap, Ravindu Laksiri is poised for an exciting journey as he aims to make his mark among the elite in the global squash community.

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