Peter Anich ready to embrace home World Masters opportunity

For more than four decades, squash has played a significant role in Peter Anich's life, taking him far beyond the four walls of the court.

What began as a switch from tennis in 1979 has grown into a lifelong passion, with squash providing Anich not only with a competitive outlet, but also lifelong friendships and benefits both on and off the court.

“I switched from tennis to squash when I returned to Mosman from boarding school to do Grade 12 because the tennis competition wasn’t strong,” Anich said.

“The people and the vibe mainly, but I also sleep better and feel better if I am squash fit.”

Representing Cairns Squash Club, Anich will travel almost 5,000 kilometres across the country to compete at the 2026 World Squash Masters Championships in Perth from 30 August to 6 September.

While it will be his first appearance at a World Masters Championships, he is no stranger to international competition.

“Competing, meeting lovely people and getting medals at both World Masters Games, Taiwan and Hong Kong Masters Tournament in 2025 was a wonderful, memorable experience,” he said.

Another standout memory came away from the court, when he attended every day of the 2010 Australian Open in Canberra, immersing himself in the world's best squash.

“I switched to the same racquet as Joelle King after borrowing hers and spent time in the midst of Thierry Lincou, Mohamed ElShorbagy and others,” he said.

“With Ramy, Nick Matthews and Grégory Gaultier beside us up to the quarter-finals, we could choose seats near them, listen to them being coached and feel the tension. It was amazing.”

Although he had hoped to compete at previous World Masters Championships in Poland and Amsterdam, unexpected caring responsibilities meant those opportunities passed him by.

Now, Anich is relishing the chance to make his World Masters debut on home soil.

“It's a wonderful opportunity, and I love watching the better players of all ages as much as competing, so it's a double bonus,” he said.

“I love the vibe and excitement of the tournaments, friendly squashies who've become an extra family over the years. It's always an even better holiday when squash is involved.”

The World Squash Masters Championships is free for people to attend, giving fans of all ages to support Australian and international players across Perth.