The pioneering project is the initiative of the Public Squash Foundation (PSF), whose goal is to offer free access to squash in public places.

The inaugural all-glass court, manufactured by ASB Squash, is modelled on the type used at Professional Squash Association (PSA) World Tour events, as well as the World Squash Federation (WSF) World Championships and the Commonwealth Games.

However, it has been modified for outdoor usage.

The new court, at Hamilton Fish Park on the Lower East Side, was officially opened by New York City parks commissioner Mitchell Silver.

Installed on one of the park's four handball courts, the squash court is the latest addition to the "Adopt-a-Park" programme.

Tommy Berden, the PSA's chief commercial officer, said: "As squash is bidding for inclusion in the Olympic programme, the opening of a public outdoor squash court in New York serves as a strong example of the value that squash can bring to a host city, by easily and efficiently integrating with the modern urban landscapes and lifestyles."

ASB says it will continue its cooperation with the WSF and PSA to encourage other cities, local federations and communities in the United States and around the world to follow the breakthrough New York example.

"It is exciting to work with the Public Squash Foundation to bring an amenity as unique as outdoor squash to one of our city parks," said Silver at the launch.

Ryan Wall, director of the PSF, added: "Bringing squash outside, and making it free to the public, is the best way to give access to all, and increase the visibility of the game."