Suraj Kumar Chand Triumphs at 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash

In an exhilarating final at the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash, India's Suraj Kumar Chand triumphed over Hungary's Benedek Takacs to claim the men's singles title. The match, held in Mumbai, saw Suraj secure victory in a nail-biting five-game contest. Meanwhile, Spain's Marta Dominguez Fernandez showcased her skills by defeating Hong Kong's Ching Hei Fung to win the women's singles crown. This championship not only highlighted individual excellence but also celebrated the growing prominence of university squash on an international stage. With the singles competition concluded, attention now shifts to the upcoming team events.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 6, 2026, 23:38 IST

Suraj Kumar Chand Claims Men's Singles Title

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 6: Suraj Kumar Chand of India secured the men's singles championship at the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash, overcoming Hungary's Benedek Takacs in a thrilling five-game showdown. Meanwhile, Spain's Marta Dominguez Fernandez clinched the women's singles title in Mumbai on Thursday.

Representing both India and Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Suraj triumphed over Takacs with a score of 3-2 in a fiercely contested match. After the competitors were tied at two games each, Suraj showcased his skills in the final game, winning decisively at 11-4, much to the delight of the home crowd.

Suraj Kumar demonstrated remarkable composure throughout the intense five-game final, while Marta Dominguez Fernandez exhibited her own brilliance to secure the women's singles title for Spain.

The men's final was a showcase of high-level squash, with Suraj battling against Benedek Takacs in a match that saw both players exchanging leads. With the support of the home audience, Suraj delivered an outstanding performance in the final game, clinching an 11-4 victory and igniting celebrations in the venue.

This victory is a significant milestone for Indian university squash, marking Suraj as the men's singles champion on home turf. Takacs, on the other hand, earned the silver medal, marking Hungary's first international squash medal in 20 years.

In the women's final, Marta Dominguez Fernandez displayed a composed and effective performance, defeating Hong Kong China's Ching Hei Fung 3-0, further enhancing Spain's reputation in international university squash.

The win was particularly special for Marta, as it coincided with her father's birthday.

Suraj advanced to the final after a remarkable comeback against France's Joshua Jacques-Phinera in the semi-finals, showcasing his resilience throughout the tournament. Marta maintained her impressive form, culminating in a dominant display in the final.

Reflecting on his victory, Suraj Kumar Chand stated, “Benedek is an exceptional player, and I anticipated a challenging final. This match is one of the most memorable of my career. Winning at home, with such tremendous support, is a dream realized. I am thankful to everyone who believed in me and supported me throughout this journey.”

The conclusion of the singles events marks a successful chapter in the 2026 FISU World University Championship Squash, which has seen participation from student-athletes across 14 nations over four days of elite competition.

Hosted by Somaiya Vidyavihar University in partnership with the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and supported by the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), the championship has underscored the rising standards of university squash while providing a platform for student-athletes globally to compete at the highest level.

As medals were awarded and champions celebrated on the court, the conclusion of the singles competition highlighted sporting excellence, international camaraderie, and the growing prominence of university squash worldwide. The championship will now transition to the eagerly awaited team competition, where nations will once again vie for global honors.