Joshna Chinappa Lauds Anahat Singh as Future Squash Star Ahead of LA 2028 Olympics

Indian squash veteran Joshna Chinappa has expressed her admiration for young talent Anahat Singh, praising her skills and potential as the sport prepares for its Olympic debut in Los Angeles 2028. After both players contributed to India's historic Squash World Cup victory, Chinappa believes Singh embodies the qualities of a future champion. With aspirations for Olympic success, both athletes are focused on their respective journeys, with Chinappa also eyeing a gold medal at the upcoming Asian Games. Discover more about their inspiring stories and the future of squash in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 19, 2025, 09:02 IST

Praise for Young Talent

In New Delhi, Indian squash veteran Joshna Chinappa expressed her admiration for rising star Anahat Singh, stating that the young athlete possesses "all the qualities of a top player." Chinappa shared her excitement about the prospect of Singh competing for an Olympic medal as squash makes its debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

Both athletes were part of the historic Indian team that clinched its first-ever Squash World Cup title by defeating Hong Kong in the final this week.

Reflecting on Anahat's skills, Joshna noted her ability to control matches, which she attributes to her extensive experience in the sport. As reported by Olympics.com, she remarked, "With years at the top level, you learn to recognize who belongs there. You can sense it early—the composure, the confidence, and how she (Anahat Singh) manages matches."

A Bright Future Ahead

Joshna's belief in Anahat's potential was reinforced after witnessing her pivotal role in leading a young Indian team to their first Squash World Cup victory. The two-time Asian champion and former world number 10 observed that the 17-year-old already exhibits a winner's mindset.

"She has all the makings of India's top squash player. The team was inexperienced but fearless, and Anahat distinguished herself by thinking like a winner," Joshna added.

Chinappa highlighted Anahat's mental clarity, calmness under pressure, and bravery, noting that she sees reflections of her own early career in the young player. Joshna herself was the youngest national champion in India at just 14.

Embracing Change in the Sport

Having faced Anahat three times this year, Joshna believes the young talent is poised for a long and successful career, and she gracefully accepts the transition in the sport. "That is how the sport evolves," Chinappa stated. "The next generation must challenge the current players. If she continues on this trajectory, I would be genuinely thrilled to see her win an Olympic medal for India—a medal our country has long awaited. She has the temperament for such a stage," she remarked.

Looking ahead, Joshna remains hopeful about her own Olympic aspirations, even at 39, as she approaches her early 40s by the time of the marquee event. However, her immediate focus is on securing a gold medal at the Asian Games in Japan next year.

"If given the opportunity, I would still love to represent the Indian team at LA 2028," Joshna expressed. "As long as I am competing, I want to do so with purpose... my immediate dream is an Asian Games gold," she concluded.