Thorpe Bay squash star Ahmed Safwat has fought his way back to the top of the world.

Safwat, 54, won the World Grand Masters in Melbourne by beating New Zealand's Trevor Colyer 3-0 in the final.

It was the fourth time that Ahmed, who was eight times the British professional champion, has won a world title in the Grand Masters series.

Titles are awarded for age groups and Ahmed, who coaches at Thorpe Bay's LA Fitness centre, previously won the honour at the ages of 35, 40 and 50.

"Winning just once was hard enough, but I am proud to have won it so many times," said the former world number six.

"It took six months of preparation, which was difficult as I had to combine my practice with coaching."

Ahmed received no prize money and added his gratitude to Essex-based Aviation Airmotive, for his financial help.

He now hopes to defend his title at a higher age group (55+) when the championships are held in Finland in 2003.

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