Joshna Chinappa Shines Again at Asian Games, Secures Bronze in Mixed Doubles
Historic Achievement for Joshna Chinappa
Veteran Indian squash player Joshna Chinappa continues to make her mark in sports, recently adding another accolade to her impressive career. Alongside her mixed doubles partner Velavan Senthilkumar, she clinched a bronze medal after reaching the semifinals.
The duo showcased their skills by defeating the Filipino pair of David Pelino and Jemyca Aribado in a commanding straight-games victory (11-3, 11-5) during the quarterfinals, which lasted less than 30 minutes at the Nagoya Kinjo Futo Arena. Earlier, they overcame another Indian team, Suraj Chand and Shameena Riaz, in a closely contested round of 16 match.
India's Squash Medal Count Grows
With this achievement, Joshna and Senthilkumar have secured India's second medal in squash, following the success of young talent Anahat Singh, who also advanced to the semifinals after defeating compatriot Tanvi Khanna.
Joshna Chinappa's Legacy at the Asian Games
As the mixed team competition heats up in Aichi-Nagoya, Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar are just one victory away from potentially claiming the ultimate prize. This medal holds special significance for Chinappa, as it adds to her already impressive collection from the Asian Games.
Having first participated in the quadrennial event in 2010, where she won a bronze in the team category, the 40-year-old athlete continues to exemplify longevity in elite sports.
Her performance at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games was particularly memorable, as she earned her first individual medal, a bronze in women's singles, along with a silver in the team event. Previously, she secured silver and bronze medals in team events at the 2014 Incheon and 2018 Hangzhou Games, respectively.
A Remarkable Career
With a guaranteed medal at the Asian Games 2026, Joshna Chinappa has solidified her status among the legends of Indian sports. Now boasting six medals, she has surpassed Saurav Ghosal's record for the most appearances and continues to demonstrate that excellence is enduring on the continental stage.
Her journey began with her first Asian Games medal in 2010, a bronze in the women's team event alongside Dipika Pallikal, Anaka Alankamony, and Anwesha Reddy, laying the groundwork for a remarkable career that defies age.
The Legacy of Joshna Chinappa
Coming from a family deeply rooted in squash, with her father Anjan Chinappa representing Tamil Nadu and her grandfather and great-uncle, Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, having a strong connection to the sport, her path to greatness was almost preordained.
The competitive spirit instilled by her family has shaped her career, which is characterized by resilience and remarkable longevity. She first made headlines by winning both junior and senior singles titles at the National Championships at just 14 years old in 2000.
Over the years, Joshna has amassed an impressive record, including six gold medals at the South Asian Games, four gold and two bronze medals at the Asian Championships, two gold and three bronze medals at the World Championships, a gold and bronze at the World Cup, and a gold and silver at the Commonwealth Games, along with her six Asian Games medals.
Continued Success
Chinappa has also triumphed in international tournaments, including the Japan Open, where she secured her 11th career PSA title, affirming her status as a global competitor who continues to excel well into her 40s. Domestically, she holds the record as an 18-time champion, leading Indian squash with distinction.
Now, with yet another chapter added to her illustrious career, Joshna Chinappa continues to carry the Indian flag high, proving that determination knows no age on the grandest stages of international sport.