Anahat Singh Makes History at Asian Games
Anahat Singh is quickly becoming known for turning tough situations into memorable victories. Just two months after she made history as the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championships, the 18-year-old showcased her talent once again. In an incredible comeback, she rallied from two games down to defeat Japan’s world No. 6, Satomi Watanabe, securing her spot in the women’s singles final at the Asian Games in Nagoya.
With scores of 9-11, 11-13, 12-10, 11-6, and 11-3, Anahat not only made a name for herself but also became the first Indian woman ever to reach the final in Asian Games squash history.
In another exciting match, Abhay Singh, 28, also made headlines by reaching the men’s singles final after beating Pakistan’s Muhammad Irfan. He has the opportunity to make history as no Indian man has ever won gold in men’s singles squash at the Asian Games, and a gold medal would secure him a spot at the Los Angeles Olympics.
Anahat’s Dramatic Comeback
Anahat faced a significant challenge early on in her match against Watanabe, having previously lost to her in a five-game series earlier this year. The home favorite took the first two games, putting Anahat in a tough spot. However, she demonstrated remarkable resilience by saving two match points in the third game.
Securing a narrow 12-10 victory in that game shifted the match’s momentum in her favor. She seized control in the fourth game as well, winning 11-6. By the final game, Anahat was on fire, winning decisively at 11-3 and completing an impressive turnaround.
Her comeback was even more remarkable after she experienced a collision with Watanabe during play, which required a brief medical timeout. However, once the game resumed, Anahat showed incredible composure and skill, traits that have helped her achieve so much this year.
Anahat arrived in Nagoya as India’s most promising squash talent. Her recent victory at the World Junior Championships in Canada earlier this year was a significant milestone for her career. She defeated Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem in the final, marking a breaking of Egypt’s long-standing dominance in women’s junior squash. This victory held special meaning for Anahat, as she had previously struggled at the World Juniors, only to triumph in her final year in the junior circuit and fulfill her dream.
Now, she stands just one win away from another significant achievement. The champion of the Asian Games women’s singles will earn a qualification spot for the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, where squash will make its debut. Anahat will await the outcome of the semifinal match between Malaysia’s World No. 5, Subramaniam Sivasangari, and Hong Kong’s Chan Sin Yuk.
Joshna and Velavan Earn Bronze
While Anahat’s journey continued, India also celebrated a bronze medal in mixed doubles through Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar. The duo faced a tough semifinal match against Hong Kong’s Tang Ming Hong and Lee Ka Yi, ultimately losing 2-1. After narrowly losing the first game 11-10, they rebounded to win the second 11-2. However, the Hong Kong team secured the final game tightly, edging out with another 11-10 win.
Despite the heart-wrenching semifinal, the bronze medal adds to Joshna’s impressive Asian Games legacy—she now has a total of six medals, which include two silvers and three bronzes.
As for Anahat, her focus shifts to the final, where another victory could elevate her from a promising young athlete to an Olympic contender.
