28 Jan 05 - Prince's John White Records First Success With 'My Yellow Want'

John White wins the SSA Global Windy City Open in Chicago, IL

Prince squash star John White clinched the first major PSA Tour title of the New Year when he despatched Egypt's former world champion Amr Shabana in straight games in the sensational final of the SSA Global Windy City Open in Chicago, USA.

It was the hard-hitting White's first title win with his new Prince racquet – the Prince M+ Pro, which will be launched worldwide later this year – and one of the most impressive title victories of his career.

The final between the Scot, who tamed North American hero Jonathon Power in a 94-minute semi-final less than 24 hours earlier, and fourth seed Amr Shabana, who overwhelmed top seed Lee Beachill in the other semi, was an all-John White affair.

In the 35-minute fast-paced encounter, the 31-year-old fifth seed showed off his incredible accuracy and power as well as retrieving ability. The pace was rapid and relentless, as both players launched attacks to the front court. The high-paced game favoured White, who was able to keep errors to a minimum.

White proved accurate, relatively error-free and strong throughout as he registered his 11-7 11-8 11-4 triumph.

"I loved the M+ Pro the minute I saw it," says White. "Literally within the first couple of strikes, I knew it was just what I wanted. It's a smaller head size from the one I was previously using – and at 140 grams, not so head-heavy. It feels perfect and when you hit the sweetspot, it feels so superb."

Boasting striking yellow cosmetics, the 140 gm M+ Pro features Prince's new T-Rail technology, plus the Power Ring string system, Wallglider bumper and Power Scoop Shaft.

"Since I've been using it, I've been striking the ball a lot better and a lot cleaner," explained White, generally considered to be the sport's hardest hitter of the ball. "I call it my yellow wand!"

The success marked John White's eighth PSA Tour title, and his second in a final against Shabana.