Indian Squash Ends Egyptian Dominance as Anahat Clinches Historic Junior World Title

A Tactical Masterclass in Junior Squash

In a performance that combined technical precision with mental stamina, India's top-ranked player, Anahat, concluded her junior career by capturing a historic world title. Entering the tournament as the top seed, the 18-year-old maintained a rigorous standard, conceding only two games throughout the entire competition. During the final match against Egypt's Ruqayya Salem, Anahat secured a 3-0 victory, though she noted the scoreline belied the actual pressure on the court.

Dissecting the Mental Game

The victory was not merely a physical feat but an exercise in psychological management. During a virtual discussion organized by JSW Sports on July 27, 2026, Anahat reflected on the intensity of the final games. While the first two games provided a sense of control, the third game tightened significantly. To prevent a lapse, she leaned into a strict set routine to maintain focus.

Key takeaways from her tournament run include:

• Stress Management: Anxiety peaked during the opening rounds where establishing momentum was vital, rather than in the final match.
• Strategic Consistency: Anahat emphasized that while her mental strength existed previously, this tournament marked a shift in how effectively she applied it.
• Historical Impact: Her win halted a 13-title winning streak maintained by Egyptian competitors.

Reflections on a Momentous Achievement

Despite the flawless statistical run, the champion expressed one minor regret regarding her immediate reaction to the win. She admitted that the shock of the achievement left her unable to plan a proper celebration. However, her performance validates her status as a leading figure in Indian athletics as she transitions out of the junior ranks. By staying composed under the immense pressure of the final points, she established a new benchmark for Indian squash on the global stage.

Source: The Hindu — Home