Nathan Lake: 15 Seasons on Tour and Still Chasing the Carrot

After 15 seasons on the PSA World Tour, Nathan Lake reached his career-high world ranking of #22 in March 2024 — a milestone that reflects not just talent, but remarkable persistence. James Green sat down with him to talk about his journey, longevity, and what keeps the fire burning after so many seasons.

Lake first picked up a racquet at age 8 or 9 in Cheltenham, England, playing both at school and at the local rugby club where his dad played. Surrounded by other juniors, he quickly caught the bug. “I think I benefitted from how small England is — I could always find someone new to play against, another carrot to chase,” he says. “Squash was just always available to me.”

By 12, Lake began taking the sport seriously. He went on to represent England multiple times, capping off his junior career by becoming European Junior Champion at 18. His name now appears on the same trophy as Gregory Gaultier, James Willstrop, and Nick Matthew — a connection he calls “a real honor.”

Choosing to go straight into the professional ranks, Lake admits the early years were tough:

“You go from being a big fish in a small pond to being the youngest guy on tour, playing men. Those first two years were the hardest.”

Working with renowned coach Rob Owen helped reignite his love for the game. He credits the people around him for serving as “bumpers,” steering him through challenges. He also draws inspiration from other sports, constantly reading, studying, and putting himself in uncomfortable positions to grow.

“What keeps me going is that I love the game. I love trying to get better and think outside the box — finding new ways to get more out of myself. When I’m mentally healthiest, I’m focused on growth, not on rankings or what people think. It’s always: how can I get the most out of what I’ve been given?”

Off-court, Lake has shown equal dedication to giving back. Through a program in Cheltenham in partnership with England Squash, he introduced the sport to schoolchildren, helping them discover nearby clubs and tap into their own potential.

Now in his 30s, Lake remains driven — not only to climb higher in squash, but to expand himself beyond it. He recently completed a summer internship in portfolio management, which he believes strengthens his mindset on court: “Getting out of the squash space mentally can be tough, but it’s really healthy.”

Lake has also trained with Mostafa Asal in New York, praising Asal’s “incredible athleticism and power,” which make him both a formidable opponent and a valuable training partner.

And beyond the courts, a new chapter has begun: Nathan and his wife, fellow pro Haley Mendez, welcomed their first child, Logan Lake, in October 2025. Congratulations to the Lakes!