Laura Massaro reveals all about squash career in new book

Titled ‘All In’, the book is not just a celebration of all she has achieved – culminating with winning the world title and being ranked the world’s best player – but a raw and personal account of how Massaro overcame personal setbacks to rise to the pinnacle of her sport.

And the overriding message is if you put your mind to something, you can achieve your goals.

The 37-year-old from Chorley retired in 2019 as one of the sport’s most successful players – twice winning the coveted British Open – but no sooner had she put down her racket, she picked up a pen.

“It’s something I have always wanted to do,” said Massaro. “It was something I was thinking about doing while I was still playing.

“I enjoyed the process. It was tough at times because writing things down is far more powerful than just thoughts and memories that come back to you.

“The one thing I want this book to do is to inspire young squash players.

“There are dark times and tough times but you can come through them and this book shows that, if you work hard and stay determined, you can overcome those setbacks.”

She added: “I’ve always said if I can do it, anyone can. Our family motto is you get out of life what you put in and that is reflected in the title of the book.”

‘All In’, which has a foreword from former England netball coach Tracey Neville, includes diary extracts and contributions from those who have helped her most throughout her career including coach David Pearson and husband Danny Massaro who also coached her throughout her career.

“It was important for me to have those contributions so the book was not all from my perspective but I also wanted them to get the recognition they deserve,” added Massaro.

“The same with the diary extracts because I wanted people to know how I was feeling at that particular time.”

The most influential people in Massaro’s career, especially in the early days, were her parents John and Jill who instilled a work ethic that has served her well throughout her career.

“My parents sacrificed a lot,” added Massaro. “Especially my dad who would drive me up and down the country to take part in competitions. They taught me about good principles and work ethic, on and off the squash court, which has served me well.”

Massaro, who was awarded an MBE for her services to the sport, says she has no regrets in a career that saw her win a total of 23 professional tour titles, including two World Series Finals crowns.

She is also four-time British National champion while she won three silver medals in the Commonwealth Games.

“I have no regrets whatsoever,” added Massaro. “Of course I would have liked to have written about winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal or converting one of my loses in a World Championship final in to a win.

“But I achieved and won more than I thought I ever would when I first set out.”

‘All In’ is released on June 1. Massaro will be holding a book signing session at David Lloyd Chorley on June 6.

Laura Massaro's 'All In'