In the world of squash, where youth often dominates the courts, Joshna  Chinappa continues to defy time and expectations. The Indian veteran, known for her fierce competitiveness and elegant stroke play, lifted her 11th PSA Tour title after an inspiring triumph at the Japan Open 2025 in Yokohama. On Monday, Joshna defeated Egypt’s Haya Ali, the tournament’s third seed, in a thrilling four-game final, 11-5, 11-9, 6-11, 11-8, sealing the victory in just 38 minutes. It wasn’t just another win; it was a statement that experience, hard hardwork  and passion can still outplay youth and power.

A Journey Rooted in Determination

Joshna’s name still commands respect in the international squash circuit. A former World No. 10, she entered the USD 15,000 PSA Challenger event ranked 117 in the world, but rankings rarely tell the full story of a player’s heart. Her campaign in Yokohama was a golden run, a reminder of the skill and spirit that once made her the face of Indian women’s squash. From the first round to the final, Joshna was focused, fearless, and fiery, rekindling memories of her finest years on the court. She began her campaign in style, brushing aside Lauren Baltayan of France and Anrie Goh of Malaysia with identical 11-6, 11-6, 11-6 wins—a performance that set the tone for what was to come.

Climbing the Ladder: Round by Round

In the quarterfinals, Joshna faced Egypt’s Nardine Garas, the tournament’s second seed, in a tough test against a young and in-form opponent. What followed was a classic display of composure and class. Joshna prevailed 11-8, 15-13, and 11-9 in a tight contest that demanded every ounce of her experience and mental strength. Then came the semifinal, a commanding performance against Egyptian fourth seed Rana Ismail, where Joshna outclassed her opponent 11-7, 11-1, 11-5. Her aggressive court movement, precise drops, and calculated volleys showcased a player still very much at the top of her mental game. By the time she reached the final, Joshna had already beaten three higher-seeded players. But her hunger for victory was far from satisfied.

The Fast-Paced World of Squash: Rules, Scoring, and Gameplay Explained

Squash is a fast and exciting indoor sport played by two players (singles) or four players (doubles) in a four-walled court. The game is played with a small, hollow rubber ball and lightweight rackets. Players take turns hitting the ball against the front wall, making sure it bounces within the marked boundaries before their opponent can return it. The ball can hit the side or back walls, but it must always strike the front wall before touching the floor. 

Squash demands quick reflexes, agility, and smart strategy, as players constantly move around the court to keep the rally going.  A match is usually played as the best of five games (sets). Each game is played to 11 points, and a player must win by at least two points. Points can be scored on every rally, no matter who serves; this is called the “point-a-rally” scoring system. When a player reaches 11 points (with a two-point lead), they win that game, and the first to win three games wins the match. Squash is not just about strength but also about precision, endurance, and mental sharpness, making it one of the most intense racquet sports in the world.

The Final Showdown

The championship clash against Egypt’s Haya Ali was more than just a battle of skill; it was a test of endurance, willpower, and heart. From the very first serve, Joshna dictated the rhythm of the match, using her tactical brilliance to unsettle the younger Egyptian star. She stormed through the first two games 11-5 and 11-9, displaying impeccable control over pace and placement. Haya fought back in the third, taking it 11-6, but Joshna’s determination never wavered. In the decisive fourth game, she tightened her grip on the contest, forcing errors and using every bit of her experience to close out the match 11-8. 

In 38 minutes, Joshna Chinappa had done it. She clinched her 11th PSA title ( Professional Squash Association Title )  and reaffirmed her position as one of India’s most enduring sporting icons. For Joshna, this victory is more than a title; it’s a personal triumph against time, challenges, and expectations. Competing at the top level of squash for over two decades, she has been a symbol of resilience and dedication. Her journey mirrors the story of Indian squash itself  a sport that has quietly built champions through sheer hard work and self-belief. 

From her Commonwealth Games gold medal to this latest triumph in Japan, Joshna has consistently carried India’s flag high on the international stage.  From the courts of Chennai to the global stage, Joshna has carried the torch of Indian squash with unmatched grace and grit. And as she lifted the trophy in Yokohama, one truth echoed louder than ever: legends never retire; they just keep inspiring.