Who Is Anahat Singh? Teen Prodigy Clinches U17 British Open Squash Title

India’s squash prodigy, Anahat Singh, has added yet another feather to her cap by clinching the Under-17 title at the prestigious British Junior Open 2025. With a hard-fought victory against Egypt’s Malika El Karaksy, Singh demonstrated her immaculate skill on the court. At just 16 years of age, she has already carved a remarkable path in the world of squash.

A Historic Victory at the British Junior Open

Singh, came first in the tournament, overcame a tough challenge from her second-seeded opponent. After losing the first game, she was able to secure the title with scores of 4-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-5, and 11-3. This victory marked her third win at the British Junior Open, having previously secured titles in the Under-11 and Under-15 categories. The win also served as comeback for her narrow defeat in the Under-17 final in 2024.

Early Life and the Switch to Squash

Born on March 13, 2008, in Delhi, Anahat is the daughter of Tani Vadehra, an interior designer, and Gursharan Singh, a lawyer. Both parents share a background in field hockey. Initially inspired by badminton star P.V. Sindhu, Singh started playing badminton at the age of six. However, her interest shifted to squash after accompanying her elder sister, Amira, to squash tournaments. Anahat received guidance from notable coaches like Amjad Khan, Ashraf Hussein, Ritwick Bhattacharya, and international squash legends Stéphane Galifi and Grégory Gaultier. Indian squash icon Saurav Ghosal has also been known to mentor her.

Career Milestones: A Timeline of Success

Singh first gained attention by winning the Under-11 title at the British Junior Open in 2019. She followed this with victories at the European Junior Open, Dutch Junior Open, and Scottish Junior Open. By 2022, Singh had won the Under-15 Asian Junior Championships and became the youngest Indian to represent the country at the Commonwealth Games.

Singh secured the Under-15 title at the British Junior Open and the Under-17 title at the Asian Junior Championships. She also earned two bronze medals at the Asian Games in mixed doubles and the women’s team event.

Singh won nine Professional Squash Association (PSA) titles in a single year, a feat unmatched since Nicol David in 2010. Her victories included tournaments like the HCL Squash Tour, Costa North Coast Open, and NSW Open. She broke into the top 100 PSA world rankings, peaking at No. 82. Singh was highlighted as a player to watch on the PSA Squash Tour. Singh’s 2025 victory at the British Junior Open was her third title at the prestigious event.

A Role Model in Indian Sports

Anahat Singh’s achievements extend beyond her age and rankings. She has emerged as a role model for young athletes, showcasing the importance of dedication, adaptability, and consistent performance. As the youngest national champion and the youngest Indian medallist at the Asian Games, she has already made history.

What Lies Ahead?

With a promising passion and discipline, Anahat Singh is poised to make her mark on the global squash scene. Her focus now shifts toward higher PSA rankings and continuing her winning streak in senior-level tournaments.