Anahat Singh Triumphs at World Squash Junior Championships 2026

Anahat Singh has made history by winning the World Squash Junior Championships 2026, becoming the first Indian to achieve this feat. Following her victory, she is now focused on the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, where she aims to secure a gold medal and enhance her chances for Olympic qualification. Singh's journey to the title was marked by impressive performances, including a decisive win in the finals against Egypt's Ruqayya Salem. Her determination and aspirations for future success highlight her potential in the sport.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 3, 2026, 06:01 IST

Historic Victory for Anahat Singh

Anahat Singh, India's rising squash star, expressed her joy after clinching the title at the Squash Junior Championships 2026, describing it as the realization of a long-held aspiration. She is now setting her sights on the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, which will take place from September 19 to October 4, 2026. Anahat aims to secure a gold medal there to enhance her chances for Olympic qualification. In the girls' singles final of the World Squash Junior Championships 2026, she triumphed over Egypt's Ruqayya Salem with a decisive 3-0 victory, marking a historic achievement as the first Indian to win this prestigious title. Upon her return, Anahat received a warm welcome at Delhi Airport after her remarkable performance in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada.

Focus on the Asian Games

"I am extremely thrilled. Competing in this event for the past four years, I often fell short in the quarterfinals or semifinals, so winning this title feels incredible. The Asian Games are just around the corner, and they are my primary focus now since they also serve as an Olympic qualifier. My goal in the coming months is to prepare thoroughly and aim for a gold medal at the Asian Games," Singh shared.

A Commanding Performance

The 18-year-old showcased her dominance throughout the tournament, losing only two games across six matches. Anahat 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 advance to the quarterfinals. She then defeated Egypt's Habiba Rizk 3-1 (11-7, 11-5, 6-11, 11-9) in the quarterfinals and overcame another Egyptian player, Barb Sameh, 3-1 (11-3, 8-11, 11-4, 11-6) in the semifinals.