For the good part of last week, she thwacked and whipped her way through the competition. Thwacked and whipped through the painful, searing memory of her shocking loss in the quarterfinals of the British Open.

And in the battle, which perhaps had more to do with the internal than the real thing, Nicol Ann David found that she still has heart.

A full-blooded beating heart that could teach you and I a lesson on the undying fibre that weaves together this quality called valour.

And the mission was accomplished; the emotions finally allowed to flow. Last night, Malaysia's own Merdeka-month baby lifted the Women's World Open Squash trophy for the fourth time.

She stands firmly, undisputedly on top of the world.

And as she holds aloft the coveted prize, be reminded again that this pinnacle is bouyed by the ocean of sweat, tears and familial investments. Many may wish for the paths to quick success. But soulful Success, now that takes work.

That takes faith.

And when it does come, it stays. Ask Nicol.

NOTE:

You can read our news rewrite here. The SABM webteam will put together a Tale in Ten tribute to Nicol in the coming days. Stay tuned.

All pictures / SquashSite