New Delhi, August 17, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India’s rising squash star Anahat Singh has put her plans to attend Harvard on hold to maximise her chances of making history at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, acknowledging that the opportunity to compete at squash’s Olympic debut may not come again.
The 18-year-old, who recently became the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championship, said delaying college was a difficult decision but ultimately one she felt was necessary.
“I mean, of course, it was a bit difficult, but I knew that this year was really important for me squash-wise. And, you know, I can go to college next year, but the chances of coming into the Olympics may not happen again,” Anahat told IANS.
Squash will make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, with Anahat identifying qualification as her immediate priority. She sees the upcoming Asian Games as a major opportunity to move closer to that goal, while recognising that other qualification routes will also be available.
Despite being regarded as one of India’s potential medal prospects for LA 2028, Anahat said she wants to focus first on earning her place at the Games.
“I’d say it’s motivating. I mean, first I have to qualify for the Olympics. I’m not even qualified yet, so I think just taking it step by step and, you know, first focusing on the Asian Games,” she said.
“My first main aim is just to make it and qualify for the Olympics and then focus on training towards it and win a medal there,” she added.
Anahat, who has broken into the world’s top 20, also acknowledged the influence of senior Indian squash players Joshna Chinappa, Saurav Ghosal and Dipika Pallikal on her development.
“I’ve grown up playing all the events with them, and I’ve seen them outside the court, and I’ve gotten a chance to learn so much from them as well,” she said.
Her rapid rise has also made Anahat an inspiration for younger players, particularly girls taking up squash.
“I’m really, really happy that a lot of young girls want to take up squash, hopefully, and they’re able to do well in sports, and it’s really special to me,” she said.
Anahat’s World Junior title followed earlier successes, including victory at the Squash On Fire Open and her breakthrough into the world’s top 20. With her junior career now behind her, she faces the next challenge of establishing herself as a consistent senior contender, with the Asian Games and Olympic qualification firmly in focus.
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