Egyptian pair Gohar and El Sherbini are ranked second and first respectively in the PSA World Rankings, but they are set to swap places when they are updated next month.

Gohar had taken a two-game lead in a closely-fought contest at the Black Ball Sporting Club, before El Sherbini retired early in the third due to an injury.

El Sherbini had won 19 of the 24 meetings between the Egyptian stars, and led 10-6 in the first game after a strong start.

However, Gohar managed to save four game points, before triumphing 17-15 in the tiebreak.

After losing the first set, El Sherbini received physio treatment on her hip, and was increasingly struggling as her opponent took the second game 11-8.

She attempted to return to the court, but retired after losing the first two points of the third game.

Gohar was a tad subdued given the manner of her victory, although is looking forward to her next encounter with El Sherbini having taken over as the world number one.

"I’m definitely not happy with the way it ended," she admitted.

"I just wish her a speedy recovery.

"I can’t wait for our next battle.

"Having the rivalry with Nour El Sherbini right now is something I’m very proud of.

"I’ve always looked up to Nour.

"She’s a great player and [the rivalry] is something I’m so proud to have."

El Sherbini explained: "I'm definitely disappointed to end it like this.

"Actually I thought it was a very good match and both of us were playing really good, so unfortunately it had to end like this.

"I think Nouran is the best player right now and you can't play her when you're not your best.

"I hope I made the right choice; you always have to listen to your body and hopefully I will come back again."

This was Gohar's first Black Ball title.

The next scheduled Platinum event on the PSA World Tour is the Allam British Open in Hull from March 28 to April 3.