Anahat Singh, India’s rising squash star, clinched the Squash On Fire Open 2026 title in dramatic fashion, stunning world number ten Nadine Shahin in the final. The 18-year-old from Mumbai triumphed 11-9, 6-11, 12-10, 11-8 in a gripping 48-minute battle on January 31, 2026, in Toulouse, France. This victory marks her second PSA World Tour title of the year and boosts her ranking to a career-high World No. 23.
Anahat showcased fierce shot-making with 28 winners and resilient defense, saving seven match points in the third game. The Egyptian Shahin, seeded second, mounted comebacks but faltered under pressure from Anahat’s precise drops and drives. Anahat earned €3,500 (about Rs 3.1 lakh) and 20 PSA points, extending her winning streak to six matches.
At 18 years and 11 months, Anahat became the youngest Indian to win a Silver-level PSA event since Joshna Chinappa. Her 2026 season now includes finals at the Windy City Open and quarters at the World Championships. From Poddar School in Mumbai, she credits coach Cyrus Poncha for her mental toughness, honed through junior world titles in 2022 and 2024.
This win fuels optimism for Indian squash amid Ramit Tandon’s top-20 presence. Anahat’s success highlights Northeast India’s sports growth, with Assam’s academies inspiring talents like her. Experts predict she’ll crack the top 15 by mid-2026, eyeing the World Series Finals.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. How did Anahat win the final?
Anahat overcame world No. 10 Nadine Shahin 11-9, 6-11, 12-10, 11-8, saving seven match points with strong defense and 28 winners in 48 minutes.
2. What prize did she earn?
€3,500 (Rs 3.1 lakh) and 20 PSA points, pushing her to World No. 23; her second Silver-level title in 2026 after Windy City Open.
3. Anahat’s age and background?
18-year-old Mumbai squash prodigy from Poddar School; youngest Indian Silver winner since Joshna Chinappa, with junior world titles in 2022-24.
4. Impact on Indian squash?
Boosts momentum with her top-25 rise; alongside Ramit Tandon, eyes top 15 by mid-2026 and World Series, aiding Northeast sports academies.