Squash: A History of the Game

Updated and with a new afterword from the author, this definitive history of squash by journalist James Zug is a must-read for squash lovers and sports history buffs alike, capturing the evolution of one of America’s greatest games.

Step into the fast-paced world of squash with this ultimate deep dive into one of America’s fastest-growing sports. This newly updated edition of Squash packs in fresh stories and insights, charting the racquet sport’s evolution.

From its scrappy beginnings in the 1850s, when English schoolboys invented the game in alleys and yards, to its arrival on US soil in 1884, squash has grown into a global phenomenon. Award-winning journalist James Zug takes readers on a fascinating journey, exploring defining moments like the pivotal shift in the 1990s from the one court size to another, a change that propelled the US to international squash dominance. The game has over 1.6 million players in this country, a growing presence in schools and colleges, and is on the brink of its next big milestone--making its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

Packed with vibrant profiles of squash legends, Zug’s narrative goes beyond the court. He uncovers the game’s rich cultural roots, tracing its elite origins and its expansion into public and commercial clubs. Along the way, he captures the passion, drama, and camaraderie that make squash so much more than just a sport.

In the tradition of iconic sports histories like David Halberstam’s The Amateurs, Squash isn’t just for players--it’s for anyone who loves a great story. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or curious newcomer to the game, this is your definitive guide to the lasting legacy of squash.

James Zug received his MFA in nonfiction writing from Columbia. His work has appeared in numerous national magazines and newspapers like The New York Times, The Atlantic, and Outside, and he is the author of a half dozen books. The world’s leading squash journalist, he has traveled to six continents covering the game. Since 2005, he has been the chair of the US Squash Hall of Fame committee.