Indian Squash Stars Celebrate Success at 2026 Asian Games with Government Support

Indian squash players Joshna Chinappa, Shameena Riaz, and Velavan Senthil Kumar celebrated their achievements at the 2026 Asian Games, where they won multiple medals. They expressed gratitude for the support received from the Tamil Nadu government and the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu. With their eyes set on future competitions, including the Olympics, these athletes highlighted the importance of the ELITE scheme in enhancing their training and performance. Read on to discover their inspiring stories and future aspirations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 6, 2026, 00:18 IST

Support from Tamil Nadu Government Acknowledged

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], October 5: Indian squash athletes Joshna Chinappa, Shameena Riaz, and Velavan Senthil Kumar expressed their gratitude towards the Tamil Nadu government and the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) following their impressive performances at the 2026 Asian Games.

The Indian squash team secured three bronze medals during the event: Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar achieved bronze in mixed doubles, while the women's team, consisting of Anahat Singh, Chinappa, Tanvi Khanna, and Riaz, also earned a bronze. Additionally, the men's team, featuring Abhay Singh, Veer Chotrani, Senthilkumar, and Suraj Kumar Chand, claimed bronze. India further added two silver medals, with Anahat winning in women's singles and Abhay in men's singles.

Chinappa, who participated in her seventh Asian Games, expressed her joy in contributing to India's medal count and thanked Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, Sports Minister Aadhav Arjuna, and SDAT for their unwavering support.

"Competing in my seventh Asian Games was special, and I am thrilled to have helped Team India secure medals. I am grateful to the CM, Sports Minister, and SDAT for their assistance. Being part of the ELITE scheme significantly boosted my training opportunities," she remarked.

The Special Scholarship for Elite Sports Persons Scheme offers financial support to athletes with medal-winning potential at international events, providing up to Rs. 30.00 lakh annually per athlete.

Shameena Riaz, who returned from her first Asian Games with a bronze medal, praised SDAT and the state government for their backing. She aims to train diligently for the Olympics next.

"These were my first Asian Games, and I am thrilled to come back with a bronze medal. The support from SDAT and the state government has been invaluable. Before we left for the Games, our Sports Minister provided significant cash incentives for our training needs. This support was crucial in our success. My next goal is to train hard and aim for the Olympics," she stated.

Velavan Senthil Kumar also commended the ELITE scheme for aiding his training abroad and fulfilling equipment needs, with his sights set on the 2028 Olympics.

"Japan was an excellent experience. The ELITE scheme has been instrumental in facilitating my overseas training and providing necessary equipment for high-level competition. My next major target is the Olympics," he shared.