Squash: Fitz-Gerald takes fourth world title

World squash No 1 Sarah Fitz-Gerald last night won a record-equalling fourth World Open title when she trounced top-seeded New Zealander Leilani Joyce in straight games in Melbourne.

Fitz-Gerald, the third seed and home town favourite who had been in superb form all tournament, took the match 9-0 9-3 9-2.

Joyce, also a beaten finalist in Edinburgh last year when Carol Owens won the title, fought gamely throughout the 44-minute contest, but her opponent proved too strong.

"The score didn't justify how hard I worked," she said.

"I was throwing as much at her as possible but she was too good on the night. She's a fantastic athlete and she deserved to win. "

The result meant Fitz-Gerald, who took the world No 1 ranking off Joyce earlier this month, has continued her recent dominance over her nearest rival.

She won the final of the Qatar Open a fortnight ago, conceding just three points, and also defeated Joyce in an epic semifinal in the British Open.

Victory meant she matched New Zealander Susan Devoy's tally of world titles.

NZPA