Anahat Singh becomes the first Indian to win the World Squash Junior Championships, defeating Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem and ending a 15-year Egyptian dominance.
Doha, Qatar Jul 26, 2026 ALN: India’s Anahat Singh made history on Saturday by becoming the first Indian squash player to win the World Squash Junior Championships girls’ singles title, defeating Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem 3-0 in the 2026 final. This remarkable achievement not only highlights Anahat's individual talent but also marks a significant milestone in the history of Indian squash, a sport that has been growing in popularity and success over the past few decades. The triumph is a reflection of Anahat's hard work, dedication, and the support she has received throughout her career, from coaches to family and the broader sports community.
The top-seeded Anahat delivered a commanding performance against the second seed Salem, winning the match with scores of 11-3, 11-7, and 11-9. Her victory is a testament to her preparation, skill, and mental fortitude, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure. According to reports from Olympics.com, her triumph surpasses the previous best performance by an Indian player at the junior world championships, which was a runner-up finish by Joshna Chinappa in 2005. For over two decades, Chinappa's finish had stood as India's best result in the junior world championships, making Anahat's achievement even more significant. This context not only emphasizes Anahat's success but also highlights the evolution of squash in India, where the sport has seen a gradual rise in both participation and international recognition.
The 18-year-old Anahat was in complete control throughout the final, demonstrating a level of skill and composure that belied her youth. Her journey to the title was marked by a dominant campaign in which she dropped just two games across six matches. Anahat began her run with a straight-games victory over Australian qualifier Lilly Wilson and then continued her impressive form by defeating Hong Kong’s Pui Yin Chloe Lo and Malaysia’s Doyce Ye San Lee to reach the quarter-finals. Each match showcased her strategic gameplay and adaptability, traits that are essential in high-level squash.
In the quarter-finals, she faced Egypt’s Habiba Rizk, a formidable opponent, but managed to secure a 3-1 victory with scores of 11-7, 11-5, 6-11, and 11-9. This match was pivotal in showcasing her ability to bounce back after losing a game, a skill that is crucial in high-stakes matches. She then overcame another Egyptian player, Barb Sameh, in the semi-finals, winning with scores of 11-3, 8-11, 11-4, and 11-6, further solidifying her status as a top contender in the tournament. The resilience displayed during these matches not only contributed to her victory but also set a precedent for how Indian players can compete against some of the best in the world.
Anahat's victory over Salem not only earned her the championship title but also ended Egypt’s long-standing dominance in the junior girls’ world championship. Egyptian players had held the title since 2011, making Anahat's win particularly significant in the context of the sport's competitive landscape. This victory could signal a shift in the balance of power in junior women's squash, with India emerging as a strong contender on the global stage. The implications of this shift are profound, as it may inspire a new generation of Indian squash players to aspire to similar heights, thereby increasing the sport's popularity and participation rates in the country.
Prior to this championship, Anahat had already made headlines by ending India’s 15-year wait for an individual medal at the junior world championships. Last year, she won a bronze medal in Cairo, marking a significant achievement for Indian squash. This time, she took it a step further by securing the gold and etching her name in Indian squash history, a feat that will be remembered for years to come. Such accomplishments not only elevate Anahat's status but also contribute to the narrative of Indian athletes excelling on the world stage, providing motivation for others in the sport.
The significance of Anahat's victory has not gone unnoticed. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya congratulated her on her landmark achievement, emphasizing the pride it brings to the nation. Mandaviya expressed his sentiments on social media, stating, "History Made! Congratulations to Anahat Singh on becoming the first Indian ever to win the World Squash Junior Championship. A phenomenal achievement and a proud moment for every Indian." Such recognition from government officials underscores the importance of sports achievements in fostering national pride and inspiring future generations of athletes. It also highlights the role of sports in uniting the country and promoting a sense of collective achievement.
It is worth noting that Anahat's path to victory was facilitated by the absence of four-time champion Amina Orfi of Egypt, who was no longer eligible to compete in the junior event. This absence allowed Anahat a clearer path to the title, although it is important to recognize that she still had to face and defeat a series of strong competitors to claim her victory. The dynamics of sports competitions often shift with the participation of key players, and while Anahat's journey was aided by this factor, her skill and determination were ultimately what secured her success.
In the broader context of the tournament, Anahat was the only Indian player to make a deep run in the girls’ singles draw. Other Indian players, including Rudra Singh, Anika Dubey, and Saanvi Kalanki, were eliminated in the round of 32, highlighting the competitive nature of the event and the challenges faced by athletes on the international stage. In the boys’ singles, reigning Asian junior champion Aryaveer Dewan was India’s best performer, reaching the last 16, while Yusha Nafees and Gurveer Singh exited in the round of 32, and Purav Rambhia was knocked out in the round of 64. This performance indicates that while India is making strides in squash, there is still work to be done to develop a broader base of talent in both the boys' and girls' categories. The disparity in achievements also points to the need for more robust training programs and support systems for young athletes across the country.
Currently ranked No. 20 in the world on the senior PSA Tour, Anahat Singh will now look to build on her historic junior success as squash prepares to make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games. This upcoming opportunity could provide her with a platform to further showcase her skills and solidify her status as one of the top players in the sport. The inclusion of squash in the Olympics is a significant development for the sport, as it brings greater visibility and recognition, potentially inspiring more young athletes to take up the game. The Olympic platform could also lead to increased sponsorship opportunities and funding for squash in India, further bolstering the sport's infrastructure and outreach efforts.
In conclusion, Anahat Singh's historic victory at the World Squash Junior Championships is a landmark achievement for Indian squash, symbolizing the growth and potential of the sport in the country. Her success serves as an inspiration to young athletes across India, demonstrating that with dedication, hard work, and perseverance, they too can achieve greatness on the world stage. As she prepares for future competitions, including the Olympics, the squash community and sports enthusiasts alike will be watching her journey with great interest. Anahat's achievement is not just a personal triumph; it is a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes in India, showcasing the possibilities that lie ahead in the realm of sports.
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