Squashed

Long before she conquered the world, Anahat Singh was a badminton-loving child inspired by P.V. Sindhu. Years later, after the Delhi teenager scripted history by becoming India’s first-ever World Junior Squash Champion, Sindhu was among the first to applaud her achievement. “I couldn't be prouder of this young champion, Anahat Singh, for winning the World Junior Squash Championships! One of my favourite memories of Anahat goes back to 2022, when I had the opportunity to speak with her through OGQ. Even at that age, what stood out wasn’t just her extraordinary talent, but also the remarkable maturity, composure, and clarity with which she carried herself. It left a lasting impression on me,” Sindhu wrote on X.

At just 18, Anahat has done far more than win a world title. By becoming India's first World Junior Squash Champion, she has broken a decades-old barrier, ended Egypt’s 13-year dominance in the girls’ event and announced India’s arrival as a genuine force in world squash.

With squash set to make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, her triumph has also elevated her into the country’s brightest medal prospect.

The victory in Canada was as emphatic as it was historic. Top seed Anahat dismantled Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem 11-3, 11-7, 11-9 in a one-sided final, becoming the first Indian to lift the coveted title.

Ironically, the championship had long been her biggest hurdle. Previous campaigns had ended in quarter-final and semi-final heartbreaks. This time, however, she refused to let pressure dictate the outcome. “It means the world. I still feel like I’m dreaming,” she said after lifting the trophy.

Family behind the champion

Behind every champion is a strong support system. For Anahat, it is her family. Her father, Gursharan Singh, is a lawyer, her mother, Tani Vadehra Singh, an interior designer, while elder sister Amira first introduced her to squash. Their constant encouragement and emphasis on discipline laid the foundation for India’s newest world champion.

Cheers for Anahat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi: “A historic feat at the 2026 World Junior Squash Championship. Proud of Anahat Singh for winning the Gold Medal and becoming the first Indian squash player ever to win the World Junior Championship title. This accomplishment will further popularise squash among the youth.”

Anand Mahindra: “Sometimes you see victories that feel bigger than a trophy. Sometimes you know you’re witnessing the rise of a sporting prodigy.”

Mansukh Mandaviya: “History Made! Congratulations to Anahat Singh on becoming the first Indian ever to win the World Squash Junior Championship. A phenomenal achievement and a proud moment for every Indian.”