White and Watts seal World Championship spot at Kooyong qualifier

Oceania’s road to the world stage has reached its conclusion, with Joe White (AUS) and Kaitlyn Watts (NZL) emerging victorious at the 2026 World Championship Qualifying Event in Kooyong, booking their places at the PSA World Championships 2026 in May.

Across four days of high-stakes competition at Kooyong Squash Club, the region’s best battled for a single qualification spot in each draw, with every match carrying the weight of a world championship berth.

Top seed White delivered under pressure in the men’s final, overcoming fifth seed Lwamba Chileshe to secure his return to the sport’s biggest stage. The win marks another milestone for the Australian, who will now head to Giza for his second appearance at the World Championships.

“It was great to get the win and obviously qualifying for World Champs is such a huge opportunity,” White said.

“This is my second time playing in the World Championships, and I’m really looking forward to it.

“I think the first time it was definitely new and a bit overwhelming with that, so I think this time going there I am really looking forward to the opportunity to get through into the second and third rounds.”

White admitted his focus had remained firmly on Kooyong throughout the week, only now turning his attention to what lies ahead in Egypt.

“I haven’t looked at the draw at all because I didn’t want to jinx it pre-tournament, so I think I should probably have a look at it now and see who I’m potentially up against.

“Egypt is such a stunning place to visit and culturally it is really amazing, so I'm looking forward to that, lot’s of good food there, so it should be really great to experience all that.”

In the women’s draw, second seed Watts proved too strong, defeating fourth seed Ella Jane Lash in the final to claim Oceania’s qualifying position. The Kiwi showcased composure and consistency throughout the event to earn her place among the world’s elite.

Australia’s Sophie Fadaely and Madison Lyon also impressed on home soil, with both reaching the semi-finals before falling to the eventual finalists, underlining the depth of talent across the region.

From Kooyong to Giza, Oceania’s finest now turn their focus to the ultimate test, ready to take on the world and continue their push on squash’s biggest stage.

The 2026 Oceania World Championship Qualifier event was proudly supported through the Commonwealth Games Australia Green2Gold2Great investment program, which helps Australian athletes and events on the pathway to international success.

For all results, click here.