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New Delhi: India’s Anahat Singh scripted history by becoming the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championship title in Ontario, Canada, on Sunday, July 26. Reacting to her memorable victory, 18-year-old Anahat said it means the world to her.

The world no. 20 defeated Egypt’s Ruqayya Salem 11-3, 11-7, 11-9 in the final of the women’s singles final at the World Junior Squash Championship. The talented youngster, who is coached by France’s Gregory Gaultier, a former world champion, dominated her opponent in the final on her way to a straight-sets win.

“It means the world. I still feel like I’m dreaming,” said Anahat after ending the country’s wait for a maiden World Junior Squash Championship title.

Anahat, who won the bronze medal at the World Junior Squash Championship, is no stranger in the junior circuit. She faced quarter-final and semi-final exits from the tournament over the last four years. The 18-year-old started as the top seed in the 2026 edition of the tournament and managed to lift the trophy in what was her final year as a junior.

“I’ve been losing in the semis and quarters over the last four years. I’ve always said, if anyone’s asked, ‘This tournament’s a curse,’ and I’ve never been able to play well in the event,” said Anahat, expressing her frustration over her past exits.

“This is my last year (as a junior) and my only chance to win it. It means the world,” she added.

Opening up on her strategy for the final, Anahat revealed she was aware of her shortcomings from the past and wanted to focus on enjoying the game without worrying about the magnitude of the occasion. Her decision paid off as she managed to wrap up a victory in straight games in the final.

“I knew if I’m stressed, I play terribly, so I just came out on court and hit my lines well. I wanted to enjoy every moment of getting to play in a world championship final,” said the 18-year-old.

Cyrus Poncha, the secretary-general of the Squash Rackets Federation of India, hailed Anahat after her grand success at the World Junior Squash Championship 2026. Poncha lauded the 18-year-old and said she is destined for greater heights in her career.

“It’s a historic moment for Indian squash. Anahat has the potential to reach great heights,” Poncha said, praising the Delhi teenager.