Karim, Laura clinches 2013 KL Open title

Laura, the competition's third seed and world no.3, outclassed Alison Water in straight sets 11-9, 11-7, 11-6 in a lop-sided final that lasted just 44 minutes.

For her win, Laura pocketed US$10,200 (about RM31,500) and the coveted trophy while Alison took home US$6,900 (about RM18,720) for second spot.

"I am really happy with my performance this week. Initially I was trying to get past the quarters, having only ever made it to the semifinals, here before. Proud to have found my form but not sure where it has come from as I haven't really been playing that well. So, I didn't expect to play like that.

"I am glad to win the match after yesterday's tough match against Nicol (David). It is really important for me to play well in the final. There's a lot of pressure on myself," the world no.3 told reporters.

In the men's final earlier, top seed and world no. 6, Karim Darwish defeated his compatriot, Mohamed El Shorbagy in straight sets, 11-9, 12-10, 11-7 in a 54-minute encounter, to clinch his second KL Open title.

Today's match was the repeat of the 2011 edition when Karim defeated Mohamed for his maiden KL Open title.

"I expected a tough match against him (Mohamed). He is currently number five in the world, so I have to be 100 per cent fit to beat him in just three sets," said Karim, who has strong support from his family.

He added that his wife, Engy Kheirallah, a former Egypt women squash player and a 10-month old son, Omar, served a big morale boost for him to win.

"I am happy my son can watch me playing squash for the first time. I think my son is my lucky charm and I will bring him to wherever I go for competitions," he quipped.