So what’s it’s like in the day of Datuk Nicol Ann David nowadays, I ask. One would think that the record-breaking World No 1 squash champion would miss being playing competitively, as she’s done professionally for nearly 20 years of her life but she dismisses the idea with an empathetic shake of her head. “I’m so happy I’m not competing anymore. I know what it takes, not just playing it but the training that goes into it. I did like the travelling… but I can travel now without my rackets and actually visit places. I’ve been to some cities but I hardly got to visit the museums and see some cool sights but now I can!” she says with a little laugh.
A feeling of contentment seems to emanate from her. “I feel freer now,” she says conspiratorially. “The very first time I woke up in the morning after I retired, I felt free. I wasn’t like stuck in a place where I had to do my training because that was all I did for so long.”
The 38-year-old now happily spends her time between Malaysia and Colombia, after moving there for altitude training a few years ago. A typical day for her involves a leisurely breakfast, taking in work-related meetings, and fitting in a little workout in the afternoon—being a big foodie, she jokes, “I still have to keep fit if I’m in Malaysia too much! Plus it keeps my mind sane.” And unless there’s a motivational talk she needs to do, you can find her chilling and relaxing at home.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Waves of Wonder
Chaumet's Ondes & Merveilles high jewellery collection invents a unique language of the sea, capturing the colours and joy of life within and around the expansive depths
Bright, Light, Bella
Bella Hadid's star shines brighter as the new face of Chopard's iconic Ice Cube collection
Beauty Playbook
We tapped the British make-up extraordinaire Pat McGrath to talk all things beauty as she takes us through her early beginnings, creative process, make-up tips and more
The Chloé Woman, Reborn
As we head into fall-winter 2024, let's unpack one of the most anticipated collections of the season-Chemena Kamali's homecoming collection for Chloé
To the Mun and Back
Korean actress Mun Ka-young opens up about her dream destinations and her non-negotiable in-flight skincare essentials
One Step at Time
We speak to Edgardo Osorio, founder of luxury footwear brand Aquazzura, on his vision of comfort and glamour, from weddings to world stages
Seams Like Art
Eleen Tan, a fashion illustrator and art lecturer, talks about finding success and fulfilment in the fast-paced fashion industry without sewing a single stitch
POWERFUL LITTLE PERFORMER
In both her wardrobe choices and acting roles, Eyka Farhana demonstrates remarkable range
HOT DAME!
Meet the chic 89-year-old great-grandmother whose story of family and romantic reunion is as awe-inspiring as her timeless elegance
Digital Transformation
Newly appointed managing director of Microsoft Malaysia Laurence Si brings 30 years of experience to the role