Anahat Singh Makes History as India's First Junior World Squash Champion

Historic Victory for Anahat Singh

Anahat Singh has etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian squash player to clinch the junior world title. She achieved this remarkable feat by defeating Egypt's Ruqayya Salem with a score of 3-0 in the girls' singles final at the World Squash Junior Championships 2026 held on Saturday.

A Stellar Performance

The top-seeded Anahat, who is also India's leading player, triumphed over the second seed Salem with scores of 11-3, 11-7, and 11-9. This victory not only secured her the title but also surpassed Joshna Chinappa's runner-up finish in 2005, which had been India's best result at the junior championships for over twenty years.

Dominance Throughout the Tournament

The 18-year-old showcased her dominance throughout the tournament, losing only two games in six matches. She kicked off her journey with a straight-games victory against Australian qualifier Lilly Wilson, followed by wins over Hong Kong's Pui Yin Chloe Lo and Malaysia's Doyce Ye San Lee to reach the quarterfinals.

In the quarterfinals, Anahat defeated Egypt's Habiba Rizk 3-1 (11-7, 11-5, 6-11, 11-9) and then overcame another Egyptian player, Barb Sameh, in the semifinals with a score of 3-1 (11-3, 8-11, 11-4, 11-6).

Breaking Egyptian Dominance

Anahat's victory over Salem marked the end of Egypt's stronghold on the junior girls' world championship, a title held by Egyptian players since 2011. Last year, she ended India's 15-year wait for an individual medal at the junior championships by winning bronze in Cairo, and this time she achieved gold.

The path to her victory was made easier as four-time champion Amina Orfi of Egypt was no longer eligible to compete in the junior event.

Other Indian Players' Performances

Anahat was the sole Indian player to advance far in the girls' singles competition. Other players like Rudra Singh, Anika Dubey, and Saanvi Kalanki were eliminated in the round of 32. In the boys' singles, Aryaveer Dewan, the reigning Asian junior champion, was the best performer for India, reaching the last 16. Yusha Nafees and Gurveer Singh were knocked out in the round of 32, while Purav Rambhia exited in the round of 64.

Future Aspirations for LA 2028

Currently ranked No. 20 in the world on the senior PSA Tour, Anahat Singh aims to build on her historic win as squash prepares for its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games.