Anahat Singh Creates History, Becomes First Indian to Win World Junior Squash Championship

India's rising squash sensation Anahat Singh scripted history by becoming the first Indian ever to win the World Junior Squash Championship, defeating Egypt's Ruqayya Salem in a commanding straight-games victory in Ontario. The 18-year-old Delhi star won 11-3, 11-7, 11-9, marking one of the biggest milestones in Indian squash.

The victory was especially emotional for Anahat, who admitted the tournament had brought nothing but disappointment over the past four years. Having suffered exits in the quarterfinals and semifinals during previous editions, she revealed she had often described the championship as a "curse."

"This means the world to me. I still feel like I'm dreaming," Anahat said after lifting the coveted trophy.

The triumph carried even greater significance as it came in her final year on the junior circuit, making it her last opportunity to claim the prestigious title.

Reflecting on the final, Anahat said she deliberately focused on staying calm rather than letting the occasion overwhelm her.

"I knew if I got stressed, I wouldn't play my best. I just wanted to enjoy every moment of playing in a world championship final and stick to my game," she said.

Her victory has been hailed as a landmark achievement for Indian squash. Cyrus Poncha, Secretary-General of the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), called it a historic day for the sport and praised Anahat's dedication and potential.

Poncha said the achievement fulfilled a long-standing dream of the late N. Ramachandran, the federation's former patron and one of the architects of India's squash development, who had envisioned an Indian becoming a world champion in individual events.

While India has previously enjoyed success in doubles, Anahat's triumph marks the country's first-ever singles title at the World Junior Squash Championship. Already ranked World No. 20, the teenager's breakthrough victory is expected to inspire a new generation of Indian squash players and further strengthen the country's growing presence on the global stage.