Indian squash reached a defining moment as Anahat Singh became the country’s first-ever winner of the World Junior Squash Championships girls’ singles title. The 18-year-old delivered a brilliant performance in the final, defeating Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem in straight games to end India’s long wait for an individual junior world crown.
The historic final was held in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada, where Anahat displayed confidence, composure and attacking intent throughout the contest. She wrapped up the match 11-3, 11-7, 11-9, never allowing her opponent to settle into a rhythm. The victory marked not only a personal milestone but also a watershed moment for Indian squash.
For years, India has produced world-class squash players who have excelled on the international circuit. Legends like Dipika Pallikal, Joshna Chinappa and Saurav Ghosal helped elevate the sport in the country, but the junior world singles title had always remained just beyond reach. Anahat has now filled that gap, adding one of the most prestigious trophies in junior squash to India’s growing sporting achievements.
The title carries even greater significance because it ended Egypt’s remarkable dominance in the girls’ competition. Egyptian players had ruled the championship for more than a decade, consistently producing champions and setting the benchmark in world squash. By overcoming Salem in such convincing fashion, Anahat broke that streak and announced India’s arrival at the highest level of junior squash.
Her journey to the title reflects years of discipline and steady progress. Widely regarded as one of India’s brightest young sporting talents, Anahat has been competing successfully in both junior and senior events from a very young age. She has earned valuable international experience, regularly facing higher-ranked opponents and steadily improving her game with every tournament.
Ironically, squash was not the first sport that captured her imagination. As a child, Anahat admired Olympic badminton medallist P. V. Sindhu and initially pursued badminton. It was only after being introduced to squash through her elder sister that she discovered the sport that would eventually shape her career. The decision proved life-changing, laying the foundation for an extraordinary rise on the international stage.
Throughout the championship, Anahat looked in complete control. She negotiated every round with maturity, combining aggressive shot-making with excellent court coverage. In the final, she dictated the pace from the opening rally, forcing Salem into errors while maintaining remarkable consistency under pressure. Her calm approach during the crucial moments highlighted the confidence of a player who was fully prepared for the biggest match of her junior career.
After lifting the trophy, Anahat described the achievement as the fulfilment of a dream. The emotional victory reflected years of relentless training, sacrifices made by her family and unwavering support from her coaches. Her celebrations captured the joy of a teenager who had just achieved something no Indian had managed before.
The achievement was widely celebrated across India’s sporting community. Players, coaches and sports administrators hailed the victory as a landmark for Indian squash, saying it would inspire many more youngsters to take up the sport. Experts believe Anahat’s success is likely to boost grassroots participation while strengthening India’s reputation as an emerging force in world squash.
Her triumph also comes at an exciting time for the sport. Squash is set to make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, and Anahat’s breakthrough has strengthened hopes of India becoming a genuine medal contender in the years ahead. With age on her side and valuable international experience already behind her, she is expected to play a key role in India’s Olympic ambitions.
Beyond the medal itself, the victory represents the changing landscape of Indian sport. Young athletes from the country are increasingly challenging traditional powerhouses in disciplines once considered out of reach. Anahat’s success is another example of how determination, quality coaching and sustained support can help Indian athletes compete with the very best in the world.
Her story is also one of courage and belief. Choosing an unconventional sport, embracing years of hard work and staying committed to long-term goals have all contributed to this remarkable achievement. At just 18, she has already become a role model for aspiring squash players who dream of representing India on the global stage.
As Anahat prepares for the next phase of her career, the expectations will naturally grow. The transition to senior competition will bring tougher challenges, but her performances over the past few years suggest she has both the talent and temperament to succeed.
For Indian squash, this victory is more than a historic first—it is the beginning of a new era. Anahat Singh has not only won a world title but also inspired a generation to believe that Indian players can stand at the very top of world squash. Her triumph will be remembered as the moment Indian squash broke new ground and confidently stepped into the global spotlight.
