New Delhi, July 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Fresh from creating history as India’s first World Junior Squash champion, 18-year-old Anahat Singh has shifted her focus to an even bigger target—the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics—saying squash’s inclusion in the Games has opened up unprecedented opportunities for players around the world.
Speaking after her title-winning campaign in Toronto, the Delhi-based player said qualifying for the Olympics through the Asian Games would be a major goal, while emphasising that her primary focus remains on improving her game rather than chasing results.
Anahat scripted history by defeating Egypt’s second seed Ruqayya Salem in straight games to become the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championships. Her victory also ended Egypt’s long dominance in the girls’ event and surpassed Joshna Chinappa’s runner-up finish in 2005.
The teenager said competing regularly on the PSA Tour against some of the world’s leading players had strengthened her game and prepared her for success on the junior stage. She also credited previous disappointments at the World Junior Championships for helping her develop the mental resilience needed to handle pressure in crucial matches.
Reflecting on the final, Anahat said she deliberately avoided thinking about Egypt’s dominance in world squash, choosing instead to treat every opponent the same. She added that winning the title in her final appearance at the World Juniors made the achievement especially meaningful.
Anahat acknowledged the unwavering support of her parents, coaches Gregory Gaultier and Saurav Ghosal, the national coaching staff, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), Indian Squash and the Government of India for playing a vital role in her development.
Former India star Saurav Ghosal, who has mentored Anahat since 2024, praised her achievement, describing it as the reward for years of hard work and perseverance. He expressed confidence that the historic triumph would become just one milestone in a much bigger journey.
Anahat’s national coach also highlighted her mental strength, saying her ability to stay composed during the decisive moments of the final proved crucial in securing the historic world title.
With a World Junior crown now in her collection, Anahat is preparing for the next phase of her career, with the Asian Games and a potential Olympic qualification firmly in her sights.
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