Abhay and Anahat Singh Triumph at JSW Indian Open 2026
Local Stars Shine at the JSW Indian Open
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 22: In an exciting conclusion to the JSW Indian Open 2026 held at the CCI, local favorites Abhay Singh and Anahat Singh emerged victorious in their respective categories on Sunday.
The men's final featured an all-Indian showdown, where second-seeded Abhay dominated his fellow countryman, fourth-seeded Veer Chotrani, with a decisive 3-0 victory (11-9, 11-8, 11-4). Meanwhile, Anahat Singh showcased her talent by defeating Egypt's Hana Moataz 3-1 (11-5, 11-6, 9-11, 11-6) to claim the women's title.
Abhay displayed exceptional skill throughout the men's final. Although Chotrani put up a commendable fight in the initial games, Abhay elevated his performance as the match progressed.
The first game was fiercely contested, with both players battling for every point. Ultimately, Abhay clinched the opening game 11-9, gaining an early advantage.
The second game mirrored the intensity of the first, featuring long rallies that captivated the audience. Abhay managed to fend off Chotrani's challenge, winning 11-8 to extend his lead.
In the third game, Abhay intensified his play, leaving Chotrani struggling to respond to his clever angles and powerful shots. He secured the game 11-4, sealing the match and the championship.
Upon winning the JSW Indian Open 2026, Abhay expressed his joy, stating, “I’m thrilled to have won this tournament. Indian squash is thriving, with four men in the top 50 and Anahat leading the Women’s World Championships. My personal goal is the LA Olympics, but this year is about supporting each other to achieve gold in Japan.”
Earlier, Anahat Singh, the top seed, delivered an outstanding performance against Hana Moataz to secure the women’s title.
Despite Hana's experience as the second seed, Anahat's agility and deceptive play proved too much for her opponent. The first game was closely contested, with the lead changing frequently until Anahat surged ahead, winning 11-5.
Continuing her momentum, Anahat quickly established a 5-1 lead in the second game. Although Hana fought back, she couldn't keep pace with Anahat, who took the game 11-6.
Hana rallied in the third game, managing to win 11-9 and stay in the match. She attempted to slow down the pace to counter Anahat's speed, which worked momentarily.
However, Anahat regained her composure in the fourth game, overcoming an early deficit to win 11-6 and secure the championship.
Reflecting on her victory at the JSW Indian Open for the second consecutive year, Anahat remarked, “I felt strong in the first two games but lost focus in the third. My coach reminded me to start strong in the fourth, which helped me regain my rhythm. I appreciate Hana's performance, especially considering her recent challenges. It was a great match for the audience, and I hope everyone enjoyed it.”