Indian Squash Sensation Anahat Singh Reaches World No. 20, Sets Sights on Olympic Debut
BENGALURU: Anahat Singh, the 18-year-old Indian squash prodigy, is making waves on the global stage with a career trajectory that many seasoned athletes would envy. Her impressive resume includes two Asian Games bronze medals from 2023, a World Cup gold in 2025, and an astounding 16 PSA Tour titles. However, her most significant breakthrough occurred last month when she secured a historic PSA Bronze-level title in Washington, defeating then World No. 10 Georgina Kennedy. She followed this triumph with another strong performance, clinching the Indian Open just last week.
Rapid Rise in Global Rankings
Having broken into the top 100 in October 2024, Anahat has since skyrocketed to World No. 20. This remarkable climb is particularly notable in a sport where Egyptian players have long dominated the rankings. Her steady ascent bodes well for Indian squash, which currently boasts four men and three women in the top 100. The timing is especially auspicious as squash is set to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, providing a new platform for Indian athletes to shine.
Pathway to Olympic Qualification
Although the Olympics are still over two years away, Anahat appears firmly on track to secure a spot. A gold medal at the upcoming Asian Games, scheduled for September-October in Japan, could grant her early qualification. Alternatively, maintaining or improving her world rankings offers another viable pathway. Her consistent performance in top-tier tournaments positions her as a strong contender for Olympic selection, with many experts predicting she could be a medal hopeful in 2028.
Endorsement from a Legend
Indian squash legend Joshna Chinappa, a Padma Shri awardee, has expressed high praise for Anahat. Speaking on the sidelines of an event on Tuesday, Chinappa stated, "She’s doing extremely well and winning top-level tournaments. I see her as a medal prospect in 2028. She has a great team around her and a very good head on her shoulders. There’s a lot more to come from her." This endorsement from a veteran of the sport underscores Anahat's potential and the confidence she inspires among her peers and mentors.
Boost from Olympic Inclusion
The inclusion of squash in the Olympics has provided a significant boost to the sport in India. Increased awareness, corporate backing, and government support are beginning to make a tangible difference, fostering a more conducive environment for athletes like Anahat to thrive. This development is expected to attract more talent and resources to squash, potentially elevating India's standing on the international stage.
Joshna Chinappa's Final Push
For Joshna Chinappa, now 39 and in the twilight of her illustrious career, the focus remains on one last push. After a quarterfinal finish at the Indian Open, she has set her sights on the Asian Games. "I’m at the later stage of my career, but the Asian Games is definitely on my mind. I’m trying to manage my schedule so I can stay fit and be at my best for the Games," she added. Her dedication serves as an inspiration to younger players like Anahat, highlighting the enduring spirit of Indian squash.
As Anahat Singh continues her meteoric rise, the future of Indian squash looks brighter than ever. With the Olympics on the horizon, her journey is one to watch closely, promising exciting developments for sports enthusiasts across the nation.
