India created history in squash on Sunday by winning the Squash World Cup for the first time, defeating Hong Kong in a tense final held in Chennai. The victory marks a major milestone for Indian sports and places the country among the elite nations in international squash.
The four-member Indian team delivered a composed and confident performance in front of a passionate home crowd, turning years of progress into a breakthrough global triumph.
Indian Team That Won the Squash World Cup
India’s World Cup-winning squad combined experience with emerging talent, reflecting the growing depth of squash in the country:
- Joshna Chinappa (World No. 28): Veteran leader and India’s most accomplished squash player
- Anahat Singh (World No. 45): 15-year-old rising star and world junior champion
- Velavan Senthilkumar: Men’s singles specialist
- Abhay Singh: Consistent performer in men’s singles
The team improved on India’s previous best fourth-place finish in 2023 and became only the second Asian nation after Malaysia to win the Squash World Cup.
Squash World Cup Final: India vs Hong Kong
The final was played at Express Avenue Mall in Chennai and drew one of the largest crowds ever seen for a squash event in India.
Joshna Chinappa gave India a strong start by defeating Hong Kong’s Ka Yi Lee 3–1 in a closely fought opening match. Speaking after the game, Chinappa said the atmosphere was unlike anything she had experienced before.
In the second tie, Anahat Singh faced world junior champion Selena Degroot. Displaying exceptional composure and resilience, the teenager won a gripping five-game match, sealing the title for India and sparking celebrations among fans.
With India securing the first two ties, the championship was confirmed before the men’s matches could alter the outcome.
India’s Road to the Squash World Cup Title
India’s triumph was built on consistent performances throughout the tournament. The team defeated several top squash nations, including Egypt and France, on their way to the final. The win was the result of preparation, form, and belief rather than a one-off performance.
Joshna Chinappa highlighted the team’s confidence going into the tournament, noting that all players were performing well in recent competitions.
What This Win Means for Indian Squash
The Squash World Cup victory is expected to boost interest in the sport across India, especially among young athletes. For a discipline often overshadowed by cricket, this success provides visibility and inspiration at a national level.
Reflecting on the achievement, Chinappa described the moment as the reward for years of commitment and sacrifice, adding that the gold medal symbolised how far Indian squash has progressed.
A Landmark Moment for Indian Sports
India’s first Squash World Cup title is more than a tournament win. It is a signal of the country’s growing strength in global sports and its ability to compete at the highest level when given the right support.
The Squash World Cup trophy is finally in India, marking a defining chapter in the nation’s sporting history.
