Jansher Khan


Jansher Khan is a former Pakistani professional squash player. During his career, he won the World Open eight times and the British Open six times. He was the world's number-one-ranked player from January 1988 to January 1998. His was unbeaten for 81 matches from 1990 to 1996; one of the longest unbeaten runs in professional squash history.

Career

Khan's professional career began in 1986, when he won the World Junior Squash Championships in Australia at the age of 16. He challenged the dominance of fellow Pakistani Jahangir Khan, who had been undefeated for the previous five years. His first major senior title was the Hong Kong Open in 1987. That same year, he won his first World Open Title, defeating Australia's Chris Dittmar in the finals. Early in his career, Khan was affiliated with the Pakistan Air Force.
Jansher Khan's main rival was Jahangir Khan. Between 1986 and 1991, they collectively won 14 World Open and 16 British Open titles. Of the 36 tournament matches between them, Jansher won 19 and Jahangir won 17.
YearTotal MatchesWon by Jansher KhanWon by Jahangir Khan
1986101
19871174
1988835
1989927
1990550
1991220
Total361917

Khan retired from professional squash in 2001, citing burnout and injuries.

Post-retirement

Health

In late 2011, Khan was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. In 2020, after suffering from severe back pain, he underwent two successful back surgeries at Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Following his surgery, Khan advised younger players on managing injuries.

"I would advise today's young players that along with their hard training they must take special care of their back, knee and groin injuries and treat minor ailments timely to avoid serious problems in future."

Coaching

In September 2020, at the request of the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mahmood Khan, Jansher Khan joined the Directorate General of Sports of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as head coach. Upon his appointment, he stated, "I will do my best to fill the gap created in the game of squash and make the country a new world champion."

Awards and recognition