Anahat Singh makes history by winning World Junior Squash Championship

Indian squash star Anahat Singh has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the World Junior Squash Championships, becoming the first Indian to claim the title. This victory breaks a 16-year Egyptian dominance in the girls' category, marking a significant moment in Indian sports history. Anahat's journey has been marked by persistence through multiple semifinal and quarterfinal losses over the past four years. Her recent triumph represents not only personal growth but a breakthrough that positions her as a leading figure in the global squash arena.

Throughout the tournament, Anahat displayed exceptional skill and composure, defeating two Egyptian players en route to the final. In the championship match, she beat the second seed Rakia Salim with a decisive 3-0 score. She attributed her success to mental calmness and a focus on enjoying the game rather than succumbing to pressure. This victory also signals her readiness to step into the senior professional circuit next year, with the 2028 Olympics and Asian Games as major upcoming goals.

Anahat's win is particularly poignant as this was her last opportunity to compete in the juniors category due to age eligibility rules. The victory crowns years of hard work and sets a strong foundation for her future career. It also highlights the increasing presence and potential of Indian women in squash, following in the footsteps of other promising players such as Joshna Chinappa and Veronika Chorani. As India celebrates this achievement, attention now turns to the senior level competitions and the prospect of further international success.