JULY 29, 2026 - GREER, SC
Anahat Signh is crowned Junior World Champion
History was made as Anahat Singh became the first Indian player to win the World Junior Squash Championship, defeating Egypt's second seed, Ruqayya Salem, in a straight-games victory.
After reaching the quarterfinals and semi-finals in previous years, Singh finally broke through on the biggest stage. The 18-year-old produced an outstanding run throughout the tournament, becoming the first Indian to reach the World Junior final since Joshna Chinappa in 2005 before going one step further to lift the title.
In Anahat post-match interview she mentioned :
"I still feel like I'm dreaming!"
Reflecting on her journey, Singh admitted the tournament had long been her toughest challenge.
"This tournament has been the worst tournament for me. I've been losing in the semis and quarters over the last four years. I've always said, if anyone's asked, 'This tournament's a curse,' and I've never been able to play well in the event."
Knowing it was her final opportunity as a junior made the triumph even more special.
"This is my last year as a junior and my only chance to win it. It means the world."
Anahat Singh's remarkable triumph marks a landmark moment for Indian squash and cements her place in the sport's history.
