India’s Anahat Singh became the country’s first Junior World Squash Champion after defeating Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem in straight games, ending Egypt’s 15-year dominance in the girls’ singles event.
Ottawa, Canada: Indian squash star Anahat Singh scripted history by becoming the first Indian to win the World Squash Junior Championships title, defeating Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem in the girls’ singles final on Saturday.
The top-seeded Indian produced a commanding performance to beat the second-seeded Egyptian 11-3, 11-7, 11-9, claiming the 2026 Junior World Championship crown and ending Egypt’s remarkable 15-year winning streak in the tournament.
Historic Milestone for Indian Squash
The victory marks the greatest achievement by an Indian player in the history of the Junior World Squash Championships.
Anahat surpassed the previous best Indian performance set by Joshna Chinappa, who finished runner-up in 2005.
The 18-year-old also became the first Indian player to lift the prestigious junior world title, underlining India’s growing presence on the global squash stage.
Dominant Run to the Championship
Anahat enjoyed a superb tournament, dropping only two games in six matches.
Her impressive campaign included victories over:
- Lilly Wilson (Australia)
- Pui Yin Chloe Lo (Hong Kong China)
- Doyce Ye San Lee (Malaysia)
- Habiba Rizk (Egypt) – Quarterfinal
- Barb Sameh (Egypt) – Semifinal
- Ruqayya Salem (Egypt) – Final
Her consistent performances showcased both composure and attacking brilliance throughout the championship.
Ending Egypt’s Era of Dominance
Egypt had dominated the girls’ junior world championship since 2011, producing multiple world champions over the past decade.
Anahat’s victory not only secured India’s first-ever title but also ended Egypt’s long-standing supremacy in the competition.
From Bronze to Gold
Last year, Anahat ended India’s 15-year medal drought at the Junior World Championships by winning a bronze medal in Cairo.
In 2026, she went one better by capturing the gold medal and writing a new chapter in Indian squash history.
Eyes on Los Angeles 2028 Olympics
Currently ranked World No. 20 on the senior PSA Tour, Anahat Singh is regarded as one of India’s brightest sporting talents.
With squash set to make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, her latest triumph significantly boosts India’s medal hopes on the world stage.
The historic victory is expected to inspire a new generation of Indian squash players and further strengthen the sport’s growth in the country.
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