Anahat Singh Scripts History as India’s First-Ever World Junior Squash Champion
Indian squash has found a new history-maker.
Thirteen-year-old Anahat Singh etched her name into the record books by becoming India’s first-ever World Junior Squash Champion, defeating Egypt’s Rukaya Salem 3-0 in the girls’ singles final at the 2026 World Squash Junior Championships in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada.
The victory is more than just a personal milestone. It marks India’s greatest-ever achievement at the prestigious tournament and signals the arrival of one of the brightest young stars in world squash.
A Dominant Campaign
Anahat entered the tournament as the top seed and justified every expectation with an extraordinary run.
Across six matches, she dropped only two games, displaying remarkable consistency, composure, and tactical maturity far beyond her age. Her route to the title included victories over three Egyptian opponents during the knockout rounds, an achievement that carries particular significance given Egypt’s long-standing dominance in world squash.
By the time she stepped onto the court for the final, Anahat looked unstoppable. She defeated Rukaya Salem in straight games to secure the championship, never allowing the pressure of the occasion to disrupt her rhythm.
Ending Egypt’s 13-Year Reign
For over a decade, Egypt has been the undisputed powerhouse of junior squash.
Since 2010, every girls’ singles world junior title had gone to an Egyptian player. Anahat’s victory ended that remarkable 13-year winning streak, making her the first non-Egyptian champion in the event in well over a decade.
Breaking such dominance is no small feat.
It reflects not only Anahat’s exceptional talent but also the steady rise of Indian squash on the international stage.
India’s Best-Ever Result
Before Anahat’s triumph, Joshna Chinappa’s runner-up finish in 2005 stood as India’s best performance at the World Junior Championships.
By lifting the trophy, Anahat has now surpassed that landmark achievement and become the first Indian ever to claim the prestigious junior world title.
For Indian squash, it represents a defining moment—one that many believe could inspire an entirely new generation of players.
A Young Star with an Impressive Resume
Although only 13 years old, Anahat Singh is no stranger to international success.
She has represented India at multiple major tournaments, including the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games, competing against some of the world’s best despite being several years younger than many of her opponents.
Her fearless style, exceptional court coverage, intelligent shot selection, and calm temperament have already made her one of the sport’s most exciting young talents.
This latest title only strengthens that reputation.
A Bright Future for Indian Squash
Anahat Singh’s historic victory arrives at an important time for Indian squash, which has produced legends such as Saurav Ghosal, Dipika Pallikal, Joshna Chinappa, and Mahesh Mangaonkar.
Her success demonstrates that India continues to produce athletes capable of challenging the world’s strongest squash nations.
At just 13 years old, Anahat has already achieved something no Indian has managed before.
If this championship is any indication, Indian squash may be witnessing the beginning of another remarkable era—led by a teenager whose greatest achievements may still lie ahead.
