Birmingham is set to host a landmark moment in sporting history as it welcomes the 100th edition of the British Junior Open (BJO) squash championships in January 2026. This prestigious event, one of the most respected junior tournaments globally, will see over 700 players from more than 50 nations compete across five days of intense competition from 2nd to 6th January.
Local Talent and Global Competition
The 2026 Alpha Bravo Construction British Junior Open will showcase a host of promising local players. The Edgbaston Priory Club will be represented by Siona Mishra, seeded 9/16 in the Girls Under 13 category, and Kai Miller, seeded 17/32 in the Boys Under 15. Mariam Eissa from Kenilworth Squash Club, seeded 5/8 in the GU17, will also be aiming for success.
In the Boys Under 19 category, Dylan Roberts, who recently relocated to the Midlands to train with elite coach Rob Owen, is seeded 5/8. He is joined by Solihull's Ismail Khalil (17/32). The Boys Under 17 category boasts three English players in the top eight seeds: George Griffiths, Gabriel Chak, and Luke McBride. Ali Khalil (brother of Ismail) and Gloucester's Matthew Hong Li Keung—winner of the boy’s Rising Star award at the 2025 England Squash Awards—are seeded 17/32.
Centenary Celebrations and Historic Exhibition
Marking the tournament's centenary, a special exhibition match will be held on the opening day at the all-glass court at the University of Birmingham. The match will feature two former BJO champions who have ascended to the professional ranks: England’s Jonah Bryant, who now trains in Birmingham, and Malaysia’s Eain Yow, currently ranked 17th in the world.
Five venues across the region will host matches, ensuring a widespread celebration of the sport. The venues are:
- University of Birmingham Sport and Fitness
- Edgbaston Priory Club
- West Warwickshire Sports Complex
- Sutton Coldfield Squash Club
- Stourbridge Lawn Tennis and Squash Club (a new addition for 2026)
A Legacy of Future Champions
England Squash CEO, Mark Williams, emphasised the historic significance of the milestone event. He stated, “For 100 years, the BJO has provided a stage where future legends are born, and this year’s centenary edition promises to be the most exciting yet. We’re proud to welcome the world’s best young squash players to Birmingham for what will be a truly historic event.” He added that the tournament is more than just a competition; it's a celebration of a legacy that has shaped squash for generations.
The event underscores Birmingham's nine-year run as host city and follows the recent announcement that Alpha Bravo Construction will serve as the official Title Sponsor until 2029, beginning with this centenary competition. Fans can find more information, including details on how to watch the event live, via the official tournament website.
