Kanzy El Defrawy’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of turning challenges into opportunities. Born on May 5, 1994, Kanzy’s life has been shaped by squash, ambition, and an unyielding drive to make a lasting impact. Today, she stands as the Founder and CEO of The Flying Daf, the largest squash academy in Dubai, and a pioneer shaping the future of the sport in the region.
A Defining Moment Abroad
One defining chapter of Kanzy’s life began at just 17, when she moved to the United States to pursue both squash and academics. Leaving home at such a young age was not easy, but it taught her invaluable lessons in resilience and independence. Beyond personal growth, it gave her access to world-class training and opportunities that would shape her future, both on and off the court.
A Stellar Squash Career Cut Short
As a professional athlete ranked #20 in the world, squash was more than a sport—it was Kanzy’s entire life. The discipline, strategy, and physical demands of professional squash defined her every day. However, at the age of 26, a serious injury forced her to retire earlier than anticipated. While this sudden end to her playing career was devastating, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter that would redefine her purpose.
Founding The Flying Daf
The transition from athlete to entrepreneur was not straightforward. Kanzy’s vision for The Flying Daf, the UAE’s first dedicated squash academy, was born out of a desire to give back to the sport that had given her so much. Starting from zero—with no investment, no connections, and a dream—she moved to Dubai and began building the academy from the ground up.
Launching the academy came with its fair share of challenges. Finding suitable courts, building trust among parents, and convincing the community that squash could thrive in the region required persistence and ingenuity. Yet, every obstacle strengthened her determination. Today, The Flying Daf stands as a beacon for aspiring athletes, offering world-class coaching and mentorship, and transforming squash in the Middle East.
Building Dubai’s First Squash Complex
Kanzy’s vision doesn’t stop at the academy. She is currently spearheading the development of Dubai’s first-ever dedicated squash complex, set to launch in December 2025. This ambitious project represents a major milestone in her mission to put the Middle East on the global squash map. The complex will not only provide state-of-the-art facilities for training and competitions but also serve as a hub for nurturing talent and creating a lasting legacy for the sport in the region.
Lessons in Resilience and Leadership
Throughout her journey, Kanzy has learned that resilience often matters more than perfection. From enduring injuries to facing countless setbacks and rejection, she has discovered that showing up every day with purpose, grit, and determination is what truly drives success. These lessons have shaped her leadership style and how she builds institutions, turning challenges into stepping stones for growth.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Kanzy’s ultimate goal is to transform squash in the UAE from a niche sport into a platform for international success. She envisions developing national talent capable of competing at the highest levels, with the dream of leading the UAE to its first Olympic squash appearance in 2028. Beyond medals and rankings, she aims to instill in young athletes the values of dedication, resilience, and passion, creating a pipeline of champions who carry her legacy forward.
Turning Setbacks into Opportunities
Kanzy often reflects on the lessons her journey offers, particularly the importance of patience and perspective. She advises her younger self—and anyone pursuing ambitious goals—that setbacks, delays, and unexpected turns are not failures but essential parts of the story. Often, these challenges lead to outcomes far greater than originally imagined, opening doors to opportunities that would otherwise remain unseen.
A Legacy in the Making
Kanzy El Defrawy’s story is one of transformation—from a young athlete chasing dreams abroad to a visionary entrepreneur shaping the future of squash in the Middle East. Her achievements go beyond personal accolades; they are measured in the opportunities she creates for others, the talent she nurtures, and the lasting impact of her work. Through The Flying Daf and the upcoming squash complex, she is laying the foundation for a vibrant squash community, inspiring future generations to dream bigger and push harder.
Kanzy wants to be remembered not only as a former world-class player but as someone who changed the landscape of squash in her region. Her journey illustrates the power of vision, determination, and the belief that with grit and purpose, anything is possible.
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