The Rise of Anahat Singh: India’s First Junior World Squash Champion
At 18, Anahat Singh has secured a historic Junior World title in Ontario, dismantling the traditional Egyptian dominance of the sport. The former child prodigy is now transitioning to the senior circuit as India’s primary medal hope for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Key takeaways
- Anahat Singh became the first Indian squash player to win the Junior World Championship by defeating Ruqayya Salem in Ontario.
- The 18-year-old athlete successfully overcame three Egyptian competitors during the knockout stages of the world tournament.
- Formerly the youngest Indian medalist at the Asian Games, Singh is now transitioning from the junior circuit to the senior professional tour.
- Coaches Gregory Gaultier and Stephane Galifi describe her as a fearless competitor with the mental approach of a world-class champion.
- Singh is positioned as India's leading squash prospect for the sport's Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
Why It Matters
Anahat Singh has rewritten the history of Indian squash by becoming the nation's first-ever Junior World champion. This achievement is particularly significant as she defeated three consecutive Egyptian opponents—members of a dominant global squash powerhouse—to claim the title. Her victory signals a shift in the international hierarchy and establishes her as a formidable contender for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, where squash will make its debut.
Background
Singh first drew international attention at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. At 15, she was the youngest member of the Indian contingent and became the country's youngest Asiad medalist. Her career began with an initial interest in badminton and admiration for P.V. Sindhu before she transitioned to squash. Since then, she has been guided by a high-profile coaching team including former World champion Gregory Gaultier, Stephane Galifi, and Indian veteran Saurav Ghosal. Ghosal, who won national titles before Singh was born, nicknamed her "Miss Giggles" due to her constant laughter during their early interactions on the team.
Key Facts
- Singh defeated Ruqayya Salem in the Ontario final to secure the Junior World title in her last year of eligibility on the junior circuit.
- The athlete is known for her exceptional backhand, peripheral vision, and the ability to read opponents faster than seasoned veterans.
- Her coaching staff includes world-class experts Gregory Gaultier and Stephane Galifi, alongside mentor Saurav Ghosal.
- She transitioned from a kid who refused to sleep alone during the Commonwealth Games to an elite athlete preparing for the professional senior tour.
- Despite her professional discipline, she maintains a typical teenage lifestyle, enjoying social media and spending time with friends.
What Happens Next
With her junior career concluding, Singh is moving into the senior professional circuit full-time. Her coaches are focusing on increasing her self-reliance and communication skills as she prepares to compete against the world's top-ranked players. The long-term objective remains the 2028 Olympic Games, where she is expected to carry the mantle for Indian squash on the world stage. As she enters this new phase, her support system is gradually stepping back to allow her to navigate the international circuit independently.
Source: The Hindu — Sport
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