Squash John White, who came close to becoming world champion a year ago when twice within a point of glory, claims that he is a better player now than when he lost last year's final, and the Scottish internationalist showed his well-being yesterday in the World Open when he beat Frenchman Jean-Michel Arcucci 15-11,

15-12, 15-13.

''I have a different outlook now,'' said White. ''I am much more mature, more professional. I'm more punctual about practising and make sure I don't overplay, so I've come to this tournament keener to succeed.''

White needed to play well because Arcucci, despite suffering the effects of asthma, hung in with tenacity. He led 11-8 in the first game and recovered from four-point deficits to reach 12-all in the second and 13-all in the third.

Other winners in his half of the draw included Thierry Lincou, seeded No.4, and Ong Beng Hee.

Results, Digest, Page 31