Indian squash has reached a historic milestone. Eighteen-year-old Anahat Singh has become the first Indian ever to win the World Junior Squash Championship, giving the country its biggest achievement yet in junior squash. Her remarkable victory also ended Egypt’s 13-year dominance in the girls’ singles event, making the achievement even more special.
Anahat Singh becomes India’s first world junior squash champion
At the 2026 World Squash Junior Championships held in Ontario, Canada, Anahat Singh defeated Ruqayya Salem of Egypt in the girls’ singles final with a convincing score of 11-3, 11-7, 11-9. The straight-games victory crowned Anahat as the first Indian player to win the prestigious World Junior Squash Championship, marking a landmark moment for Indian sport.
For more than a decade, Egypt had dominated the girls’ singles competition, winning every title since 2013. By lifting the trophy, Anahat brought that impressive winning streak to an end and showed that India is becoming a strong force in world squash.
The World Junior Squash Championship is one of the most important tournaments for young squash players. Many of its past champions have gone on to become world-class professionals and senior world champions.
Anahat Singh has already represented India at major international events, including the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games, despite her young age. Winning the junior world title is another major step in what many believe could be a brilliant international career.
What is squash?
Squash is a fast-paced indoor racket sport played by two players inside a four-walled court. Players take turns hitting a small rubber ball against the front wall, aiming to make it difficult for their opponent to return the shot. Matches require quick movement, strategy, stamina, and precise shot-making.
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