KUALA LUMPUR: National squash player Joachim Chuah has reached a career-high world No. 57 following strong performances on the PSA Tour.
The breakthrough sees the 22-year-old climb to national No. 2, behind world No. 12 Ng Eain Yow.
Joachim climbed 12 places in the latest world rankings released on Monday after advancing to the second round of the Diamond-level Egyptian Open as a qualifier.
In the qualifying round, he defeated compatriot and world No. 69 Sanjay Jeeva before stunning Switzerland's world No. 32 Nicolas Mueller 11-3, 11-6, 11-4 in the main draw opening round.
The US-based player then pushed Egypt's world No. 1 Mostafa Asal in the second round before losing 3-11, 6-11, 11-6, 3-11.
His rise follows a strong run of form over recent months, including winning the Nash Open title in Canada last month to jump 39 spots to world No. 65, as well as lifting the Indian Tour title in Chennai in July.
"I feel very happy and super grateful," said Joachim.
"My goal was to break into the top 70 this season, and now that I am in the top 60, it is a huge bonus."
Joachim is aiming to break into the top 50 before the end of the season.
"I have registered for several higher-tier PSA Tour events, but I am on the reserve list.
"It would be great to get another break after playing in the Egyptian Open.
"My priority now is the Asian Team Championships in Islamabad from Nov 3-7, and I hope to make a breakthrough," said Joachim, who has won six PSA titles since turning professional six years ago.
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