World No. 20 and top seed Anahat Singh created history by defeating Egypt's Ruqayya Salem in the final of the World Junior Squash Individual Championships held in New Delhi. This victory marks a significant milestone for Indian squash.

Key Takeaways

  • Anahat Singh has become the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championship title.
  • She defeated Ruqayya Salem of Egypt 11-3, 11-7, and 11-9 in the final.
  • This was Anahat's last year on the junior circuit, and she seized the opportunity.
  • The victory is a historic moment for Indian squash.

New Delhi: India's young sensation, Anahat Singh, etched her name in the history books on Saturday, July 25, 2026, by clinching the World Junior Squash Championship title. In a summit clash held in New Delhi, World No. 20 and top seed Anahat defeated Egypt's Ruqayya Salem with a commanding scoreline of 11-3, 11-7, and 11-9. With this triumph, Anahat becomes the first-ever Indian to win the coveted World Junior Squash Championship.

Anahat, who secured a bronze medal last year after reaching the semifinals, stated that winning the World Junior Squash Championship means "the world to her." "It means the world. I still feel like I’m dreaming," Anahat expressed after her title win. The 18-year-old Delhi girl added, "I’ve been losing in the semis and quarters over the last four years. I’ve always said, if anyone’s asked, ‘This tournament’s a curse,’ and I’ve never been able to play well in the event." The victory is particularly special as this was her final year on the junior circuit.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis indicates that Anahat Singh's victory is a pivotal moment for Indian squash. It not only highlights the growing popularity of the sport in the country but also serves as a powerful inspiration for aspiring young athletes to achieve success on the global stage. This achievement underscores the possibility of reaching the pinnacle through consistent hard work and proper guidance.

Cyrus Poncha, the secretary-general of the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), hailed the victory as a 'historic moment for Indian squash.' He remarked, "Anahat has the potential to reach great heights." He also referenced the dream of the late Mr. N. Ramachandran, SRFI patron and visionary of the Indian Squash Academy, to see India produce a world champion in individual events. "We achieved it in doubles, but to replicate that success in singles, it is really a dream come true. A lot of hard work and effort by Anahat, of course, but we've had the entire nation behind her and her successes over the last few years," Poncha added.

Did You Know?: Anahat Singh had previously reached the quarterfinals and semifinals multiple times in the four years leading up to her 2026 World Junior Squash Championship victory, making this win even more significant.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is Anahat Singh's previous record in the World Junior Squash Championship?
  2. What is the expected impact of this victory on Indian squash?
"Anahat Singh's World Junior title win is an inspiring moment for Indian sports, opening new avenues for young talent."