Indian squash has found a rising star in Anahat Singh, who delivered a stunning performance to win her second consecutive JSW Indian Open title. At just 18, Anahat defeated Egypt’s Hana Moataz, currently ranked World No. 29, with a commanding scoreline of 11-5, 11-6, 9-11, 11-6. The victory at the iconic Cricket Club of India was not just about defending a title—it was a statement. A statement that Indian squash may soon have a regular presence in the global top tier.

Dominance from the First Serve

Anahat wasted no time asserting her authority in the final. The first two games were wrapped up in just six minutes each, a testament to her aggressive intent and tactical sharpness. Her movement to the front court was swift and decisive, and her shot selection kept Moataz constantly under pressure. The Egyptian struggled to read Anahat’s variations, as the Indian mixed pace, angles, and deception with remarkable maturity. The early dominance set the tone for the match, giving Anahat a crucial psychological edge.

The Magic of the “Boast”

One of the standout features of Anahat’s game was her mastery of the “boast” a technically demanding shot that requires precision and creativity. Executed by striking the sidewall before the ball hits the front wall and drops softly, the boast is as much an art as it is a skill. Anahat used it brilliantly, carving out angles with finesse and forcing her opponent into uncomfortable positions. Her ability to play this shot on both flanks, combined with a deceptive low flick reminiscent of badminton net play, added a unique dimension to her game. For spectators, it was not just effective it was entertaining.

A Brief Challenge in the Third Game

Despite her dominance, the match wasn’t entirely one-sided. In the third game, Moataz adjusted her strategy, extending rallies and pushing Anahat to the back court. Using her physicality and court presence, the Egyptian gained momentum and took the game 11-9. It was a reminder of the challenges that come with competing at the senior level, where endurance and tactical adaptability are crucial. For a moment, it seemed the match could shift. What sets champions apart is their ability to respond under pressure—and Anahat did exactly that. After losing focus briefly in the third game, she regrouped with guidance from her coach and came back stronger in the fourth. Her focus sharpened, her movement became more controlled, and her shot execution returned to its earlier precision. She closed out the match 11-6, showcasing not just skill, but mental resilience. Her post-match reflection revealed a mature mindset. Acknowledging her tendency to lose focus, she emphasised the importance of staying motivated and concentrating on each point—a quality essential for long-term success.

Backed by Experience and Belief

Anahat’s growth is also being shaped by the guidance of Saurav Ghosal, one of India’s most accomplished squash players. Ghosal believes that Anahat has the potential to break into the world’s top 10 in the near future. According to him, she already possesses the ability to challenge and defeat top-ranked players. However, he also points out areas for improvement particularly dealing with the physical intensity and defensive demands of senior-level competition. These are challenges that every young athlete must overcome on the path to greatness.

Bigger Challenges Ahead

While the Indian Open victory is a significant milestone, Anahat’s journey is just beginning. She is set to compete in the upcoming World Junior Championships, where no Indian woman has ever claimed the title. It presents a historic opportunity—not just for her, but for Indian squash as a whole. Beyond that, the Asian Games will pose an even tougher challenge, with top players like Sivasangari Subramaniam and Satomi Watanabe in contention. The stakes are high, as success at the Asian Games could pave the way for Olympic qualification, making every match crucial. Anahat Singh’s triumph at the Indian Open 2026 is a glimpse into the future of Indian squash. With her skill, composure, and hunger to improve, she is well on her way to joining the sport’s elite ranks. As she prepares for bigger challenges on the global stage, one thing is clear—this is just the beginning of what could be a remarkable career. And if her current form is any indication, the world better get used to seeing her name among the very best.