<p>In elite sport, the difference between talent and greatness often lies in the unseen hours, and for Gregory Gaultier, that difference is simple: discipline. Speaking in an exclusive interaction with WION, the former world no. 1 and multiple-time World Open and British Open champion broke down what separates a good squash player from a world champion. “It’s the discipline and commitment you bring every single day in training,” he said. “What you produce in training reflects directly in competition.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gaultier, famously nicknamed “The General,” explained that the moniker, given by commentator Joey Barrington, came from his commanding presence on court. “It was about how I controlled the ‘T’ position. The player who dominates that space usually dominates the match,” he said. Reflecting on his fierce rivalries with players like Ramy Ashour and Nick Matthew, Gaultier said there was no single toughest opponent. “Each player had a unique style. You had to constantly adapt. That generation kept pushing each other and raising the bar.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On reaching world no. 1, he admitted the mental challenge was as significant as the achievement. “The first time brought relief, but also pressure. Everyone wants to beat you. The second time, I was better prepared to handle it.” Turning to the evolution of squash, Gaultier believes the game, especially on the women’s side, has reached new physical and tactical heights. “The pace and intensity have gone up. Matches are longer, tougher, and demanding.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-ready-to-host-iran-football-world-cup-matches-if-fifa-approves-mexico-president-us-donald-trump-1773770109017"><strong>'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup matches if FIFA approves': Mexico President</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Injuries, he said, are an inevitable part of a long career, but also an opportunity. “You need to understand why it happened. It’s not always bad luck. Recovery is about patience, rehab, and managing expectations when you return.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A major part of the conversation focused on India’s rising star Anahat Singh, whom Gaultier has been coaching for the past two years. “It’s a team effort, but her improvement has been remarkable,” he said. “One thing that stands out is her hunger to learn. She stays back after tournaments, watches top players, trains, and absorbs everything.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He emphasised her fearless mindset as her biggest strength. “Anahat has the approach of a champion. Whether she plays world no. 1 or no. 20, she steps on court to win, not just to compete.” Now entering tournaments as a top seed, Gaultier acknowledged the added pressure, but sees it as a positive. “It’s about converting that pressure into motivation. Her recent performances and maturity will help her handle it.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Looking ahead, the inclusion of squash in the 2028 Summer Olympics marks a historic moment for the sport. While Gaultier himself will miss out as a player, he sees it as a game-changer. “This is huge for squash. It will bring more exposure and take the sport to new heights,” he said. “For players like Anahat, it’s a massive opportunity. Competing, and maybe winning a medal, would be incredible for Indian squash.”</p><h2>JSW India Open begins today</h2><p>The second edition of the JSW Indian Open is set to kick off on Wednesday at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai. The tournament will feature 30 matches across men’s and women’s draws, with players competing for valuable PSA ranking points and the prestigious title.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sanctioned by the Professional Squash Association (PSA) and organised under the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), the event is classified as a PSA Copper tournament. It offers equal prize money in both the men’s and women’s categories and continues to establish itself as a key platform for Indian players to test themselves against top international competition on home turf.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>All eyes will be on top seed and defending champion Anahat Singh, who returns following a breakthrough season on the PSA Tour. She will be joined by prominent Indian players including Ramit Tandon, Veer Chotrani, Abhay Singh, and seasoned campaigner Joshna Chinappa, each aiming to deliver strong performances before the home crowd. The competition also boasts a formidable international lineup, with players such as Yahya Elnawasny, Nadien Elhammam, and Enora Villard in the mix, ensuring a series of exciting contests throughout the tournament.</p>

Gregory Gaultier backs Anahat Singh’s fearless mindset, discipline and rapid rise, saying she has the mindset needed to win at the highest level

In elite sport, the difference between talent and greatness often lies in the unseen hours, and for Gregory Gaultier, that difference is simple: discipline. Speaking in an exclusive interaction with WION, the former world no. 1 and multiple-time World Open and British Open champion broke down what separates a good squash player from a world champion. “It’s the discipline and commitment you bring every single day in training,” he said. “What you produce in training reflects directly in competition.” Gaultier, famously nicknamed “The General,” explained that the moniker, given by commentator Joey Barrington, came from his commanding presence on court. “It was about how I controlled the ‘T’ position. The player who dominates that space usually dominates the match,” he said. Reflecting on his fierce rivalries with players like Ramy Ashour and Nick Matthew, Gaultier said there was no single toughest opponent. “Each player had a unique style. You had to constantly adapt. That generation kept pushing each other and raising the bar.” On reaching world no. 1, he admitted the mental challenge was as significant as the achievement. “The first time brought relief, but also pressure. Everyone wants to beat you. The second time, I was better prepared to handle it.” Turning to the evolution of squash, Gaultier believes the game, especially on the women’s side, has reached new physical and tactical heights. “The pace and intensity have gone up. Matches are longer, tougher, and demanding.” Also Read: 'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup matches if FIFA approves': Mexico President Injuries, he said, are an inevitable part of a long career, but also an opportunity. “You need to understand why it happened. It’s not always bad luck. Recovery is about patience, rehab, and managing expectations when you return.” A major part of the conversation focused on India’s rising star Anahat Singh, whom Gaultier has been coaching for the past two years. “It’s a team effort, but her improvement has been remarkable,” he said. “One thing that stands out is her hunger to learn. She stays back after tournaments, watches top players, trains, and absorbs everything.” He emphasised her fearless mindset as her biggest strength. “Anahat has the approach of a champion. Whether she plays world no. 1 or no. 20, she steps on court to win, not just to compete.” Now entering tournaments as a top seed, Gaultier acknowledged the added pressure, but sees it as a positive. “It’s about converting that pressure into motivation. Her recent performances and maturity will help her handle it.” Looking ahead, the inclusion of squash in the 2028 Summer Olympics marks a historic moment for the sport. While Gaultier himself will miss out as a player, he sees it as a game-changer. “This is huge for squash. It will bring more exposure and take the sport to new heights,” he said. “For players like Anahat, it’s a massive opportunity. Competing, and maybe winning a medal, would be incredible for Indian squash.” JSW India Open begins today The second edition of the JSW Indian Open is set to kick off on Wednesday at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai. The tournament will feature 30 matches across men’s and women’s draws, with players competing for valuable PSA ranking points and the prestigious title. Sanctioned by the Professional Squash Association (PSA) and organised under the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), the event is classified as a PSA Copper tournament. It offers equal prize money in both the men’s and women’s categories and continues to establish itself as a key platform for Indian players to test themselves against top international competition on home turf. All eyes will be on top seed and defending champion Anahat Singh, who returns following a breakthrough season on the PSA Tour. She will be joined by prominent Indian players including Ramit Tandon, Veer Chotrani, Abhay Singh, and seasoned campaigner Joshna Chinappa, each aiming to deliver strong performances before the home crowd. The competition also boasts a formidable international lineup, with players such as Yahya Elnawasny, Nadien Elhammam, and Enora Villard in the mix, ensuring a series of exciting contests throughout the tournament.

<p>Gregory Gaultier backs Anahat Singh’s fearless mindset, discipline and rapid rise, saying she has the mindset needed to win at the highest level</p>

'Anahat has the mindset of a champion—now she’s ready for the big stage', says coach Gregory Gaultier

<p>Poised. Focused. Unfazed by the moment. At just 17, Anahat Singh carries herself like someone who knows this is only the beginning. On Sunday (February 2), in Washington, the Indian prodigy delivered a performance that felt less like an upset and more like an announcement. Anahat clinched the Squash On Fire Open 2026, winning the biggest title of her young career and her first-ever Professional Squash Association (PSA) Bronze-level title.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Standing in her way was the tournament’s top seed, Georgina Kennedy of England, the 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medallist and current world no.10. What followed was a masterclass in composure and control. Anahat swept aside the higher-ranked opponent 3-0 (12-10, 11-5, 11-7) in a brisk 26-minute final that showcased her maturity, precision, and fearless shot-making. The match’s turning point came early. Trailing 8-10 in the opening game, Anahat refused to blink.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Four consecutive points later, the momentum had swung decisively. Even when she fell behind again in the second game, the teenager responded with another explosive run, and from that moment on, she never loosened her grip on the contest. By the third game, she raced to a 5-1 lead in under two minutes, leaving Kennedy searching for answers as the Indian closed out the title in emphatic fashion.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-15-man-t20-world-cup-squad-test-captain-dropped-as-key-changes-confirmed-dhananjaya-de-silva-1770051490095"><strong>Sri Lanka 15-man T20 World Cup squad: Test captain dropped as key changes confirmed</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DUOihONDzsm/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DUOihONDzsm/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DUOihONDzsm/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by PSA Squash Tour (@psasquashtour)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<p>Ranked 31st in the world, Anahat’s path to the trophy was anything but easy. After receiving a first-round bye, she outplayed South Africa’s Hayley Ward in the pre-quarters, followed it up with a statement win over Egypt’s second seed Sana Ibrahim in the quarter-finals, and then overcame American star Sabrina Sobhy in the semis to book her place in the final. This win marks Anahat’s 15th PSA title overall, further cementing her status as one of the most exciting young talents in global squash.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Already, her resume boasts being part of India’s maiden Squash World Cup winning team, along with individual honours including Women’s Challenger Player of the Season and a share of the Women’s Young Player of the Season award last year. Still a teenager. Already rewriting expectations. Indian squash isn’t just rising, it’s arriving.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking after the win, Anahat said, "I'm extremely happy. Coming into this event, I mean, I played British Juniors a couple of weeks back, and I didn't play too well, and I knew in between both of these events, I had some time to train, and I did as much as I could to possibly get to the best of my game. I'm glad I was able to do that this time.</p>

Teen sensation Anahat Singh stuns world no.10, Georgina Kennedy, to win maiden PSA Bronze-level title in Washington

Poised. Focused. Unfazed by the moment. At just 17, Anahat Singh carries herself like someone who knows this is only the beginning. On Sunday (February 2), in Washington, the Indian prodigy delivered a performance that felt less like an upset and more like an announcement. Anahat clinched the Squash On Fire Open 2026, winning the biggest title of her young career and her first-ever Professional Squash Association (PSA) Bronze-level title. Standing in her way was the tournament’s top seed, Georgina Kennedy of England, the 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medallist and current world no.10. What followed was a masterclass in composure and control. Anahat swept aside the higher-ranked opponent 3-0 (12-10, 11-5, 11-7) in a brisk 26-minute final that showcased her maturity, precision, and fearless shot-making. The match’s turning point came early. Trailing 8-10 in the opening game, Anahat refused to blink. Four consecutive points later, the momentum had swung decisively. Even when she fell behind again in the second game, the teenager responded with another explosive run, and from that moment on, she never loosened her grip on the contest. By the third game, she raced to a 5-1 lead in under two minutes, leaving Kennedy searching for answers as the Indian closed out the title in emphatic fashion. Also Read: Sri Lanka 15-man T20 World Cup squad: Test captain dropped as key changes confirmed

<p>At just 17, Anahat Singh stunned world no.10 Georgina Kennedy to win her maiden PSA Bronze title at the Squash On Fire Open in Washington</p>

<p>At 15, most teenagers worry about school, exams, or weekend plans. Anika Dubey thinks about all of that too, but only after she finishes a few hours of intense squash training, prepares for her next women’s professional tournament, and squeezes in time to chase her growing list of national titles. India’s newest squash prodigy, fresh off winning the Junior National U-19 Championship, speaks with the clarity of a seasoned athlete. There is no rush in her voice, no sense of rebellion against the heavy routine she has chosen. If anything, she sounds hungry, hungry to chase players older, taller, stronger, and more experienced than herself.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I was a little nervous because they were all two to three years older,” Anika admits in an exclusive conversation with WION, recalling her run at the U-19 level. “But once I start playing, the nerves go away.” What she doesn’t say, but her performances do, is that she doesn’t just compete with older players; she beats them.</p><h2>From society courts to national podiums</h2><p>Anika’s squash journey began not in a high-performance academy but inside her housing society in Pune. “There was a squash court here, and a few players used to play well. I would watch them and wanted to try,” she says. What started as simple curiosity soon evolved into something sharper. At 11, she began taking the sport seriously. By 2021, she joined Chance2Sports Foundation under the guidance of coach Abhinav Sinha, the turning point that refined her raw game into an attacking, structured style.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“When I joined, my technique was really bad,” she says with refreshing honesty. “Abhinav sir helped me improve everything, technically, skillfully. I have become a lot better.” That “lot better” is an understatement. From a basic game full of “drives and crosses,” Anika has transformed herself into a player who volleys aggressively, takes time away from opponents, and dominates rallies with unexpected maturity. Her evolution shows in her consistency — four straight junior national titles, each more convincing than the last.</p><h2>The medal that changed everything</h2><p>Last year, she won a bronze medal at the Asian Junior Individual Championships, a breakthrough she now calls the confidence catalyst. “I played the same girl in the semis this year that I played last year,” she recalls. “And this year I had a much better result. It made me feel I can win medals internationally too.” There is a spark in her tone when she speaks about Malaysian and Egyptian players, the two global powerhouses of squash. “I can actually compete with them,” she says, not as a dream but as a declaration.</p><h2>The hardest part? Fitness. The motivation? Goals</h2><p>If squash is a demanding sport, Anika doesn’t sugarcoat its tougher realities. “The most challenging part is fitness. I don’t think anybody likes doing fitness, but I especially don’t,” she laughs. Yet she never skips it. What makes her push through? “My goals,” she says. “When I think about the match I want to play next, or the shot I want to use, or the ranking I want to reach, it motivates me.” Her next few months are focused on the women’s professional circuit, especially PSA events in India. She has already begun testing herself against world-ranked players. Just recently, she took a game off a top-70 player from Ireland, a result most juniors would frame on their bedroom wall.</p><h2>Balancing academic and dream</h2><p>The toughest opponent Anika faces often isn’t on a squash court, it’s time. She has her Class 10 boards in February next year. “It’s tough to manage,” she admits. “I have zero time left for anything else.” Yet her routine continues: school in the morning, training in the evening, revision at night, tournaments squeezed in between. Her family’s support, she says, holds her world together. “When I told them I wanted to train harder and play internationally, they were very supportive. My parents manage everything so I don’t get overwhelmed.” Even her grandparents pitch in. “They helped me train and manage everything when I was younger.” Pressure? Only the healthy kind. “Yes, I should get good marks,” she smiles, “but it’s not a pressure thing.”</p><h2>Role models and the road ahead</h2><p>Among global stars, Amina Orfi, the Egyptian sensation, inspires her most. “She’s young, competing against older players, and reaching world no. 4. Her game is really dominating and attacking.” The resemblance in their styles is no coincidence. In the next four to five years, Anika sees herself playing many more women’s events, but beyond that, she doesn’t claim to know. And that honesty is refreshing. “With school going on, I’m not really sure,” she says. “I’m taking it step by step.”</p><h2>The myth about squash</h2><p>As for myths about squash? “People think it’s like tennis or badminton,” she laughs. “It’s nothing like that. The movement, technique, everything is different.” And for those confused about the indoor sport where players hit a ball to a wall while standing side by side? “It’s pretty hard to explain,” she shrugs, but she certainly knows how to play it. At 15, she has already changed the contours of Indian junior squash. The senior circuit awaits. The world awaits. And if her confidence is any indicator, Anika Dubey is not here to merely participate, she is here to belong.</p>

India’s youngest squash storm: Meet 15-year-old Anika Dubey, the next big star ready to take on the world

At 15, most teenagers worry about school, exams, or weekend plans. Anika Dubey thinks about all of that too, but only after she finishes a few hours of intense squash training, prepares for her next women’s professional tournament, and squeezes in time to chase her growing list of national titles. India’s newest squash prodigy, fresh off winning the Junior National U-19 Championship, speaks with the clarity of a seasoned athlete. There is no rush in her voice, no sense of rebellion against the heavy routine she has chosen. If anything, she sounds hungry, hungry to chase players older, taller, stronger, and more experienced than herself. “I was a little nervous because they were all two to three years older,” Anika admits in an exclusive conversation with WION, recalling her run at the U-19 level. “But once I start playing, the nerves go away.” What she doesn’t say, but her performances do, is that she doesn’t just compete with older players; she beats them. From society courts to national podiums Anika’s squash journey began not in a high-performance academy but inside her housing society in Pune. “There was a squash court here, and a few players used to play well. I would watch them and wanted to try,” she says. What started as simple curiosity soon evolved into something sharper. At 11, she began taking the sport seriously. By 2021, she joined Chance2Sports Foundation under the guidance of coach Abhinav Sinha, the turning point that refined her raw game into an attacking, structured style. “When I joined, my technique was really bad,” she says with refreshing honesty. “Abhinav sir helped me improve everything, technically, skillfully. I have become a lot better.” That “lot better” is an understatement. From a basic game full of “drives and crosses,” Anika has transformed herself into a player who volleys aggressively, takes time away from opponents, and dominates rallies with unexpected maturity. Her evolution shows in her consistency — four straight junior national titles, each more convincing than the last. The medal that changed everything Last year, she won a bronze medal at the Asian Junior Individual Championships, a breakthrough she now calls the confidence catalyst. “I played the same girl in the semis this year that I played last year,” she recalls. “And this year I had a much better result. It made me feel I can win medals internationally too.” There is a spark in her tone when she speaks about Malaysian and Egyptian players, the two global powerhouses of squash. “I can actually compete with them,” she says, not as a dream but as a declaration. The hardest part? Fitness. The motivation? Goals If squash is a demanding sport, Anika doesn’t sugarcoat its tougher realities. “The most challenging part is fitness. I don’t think anybody likes doing fitness, but I especially don’t,” she laughs. Yet she never skips it. What makes her push through? “My goals,” she says. “When I think about the match I want to play next, or the shot I want to use, or the ranking I want to reach, it motivates me.” Her next few months are focused on the women’s professional circuit, especially PSA events in India. She has already begun testing herself against world-ranked players. Just recently, she took a game off a top-70 player from Ireland, a result most juniors would frame on their bedroom wall. Balancing academic and dream The toughest opponent Anika faces often isn’t on a squash court, it’s time. She has her Class 10 boards in February next year. “It’s tough to manage,” she admits. “I have zero time left for anything else.” Yet her routine continues: school in the morning, training in the evening, revision at night, tournaments squeezed in between. Her family’s support, she says, holds her world together. “When I told them I wanted to train harder and play internationally, they were very supportive. My parents manage everything so I don’t get overwhelmed.” Even her grandparents pitch in. “They helped me train and manage everything when I was younger.” Pressure? Only the healthy kind. “Yes, I should get good marks,” she smiles, “but it’s not a pressure thing.” Role models and the road ahead Among global stars, Amina Orfi, the Egyptian sensation, inspires her most. “She’s young, competing against older players, and reaching world no. 4. Her game is really dominating and attacking.” The resemblance in their styles is no coincidence. In the next four to five years, Anika sees herself playing many more women’s events, but beyond that, she doesn’t claim to know. And that honesty is refreshing. “With school going on, I’m not really sure,” she says. “I’m taking it step by step.” The myth about squash As for myths about squash? “People think it’s like tennis or badminton,” she laughs. “It’s nothing like that. The movement, technique, everything is different.” And for those confused about the indoor sport where players hit a ball to a wall while standing side by side? “It’s pretty hard to explain,” she shrugs, but she certainly knows how to play it. At 15, she has already changed the contours of Indian junior squash. The senior circuit awaits. The world awaits. And if her confidence is any indicator, Anika Dubey is not here to merely participate, she is here to belong.

<p>At just 15, Anika Dubey is taking on older, world-ranked players and winning. From society courts to national titles, she’s emerging as India’s next squash star</p>

<p>At just 14, Vasundhara Nangare is proving that talent and determination can overcome even the biggest challenges. Growing up in Kalamb, a small town in Maharashtra with no squash courts or proper training facilities, she has carved a path in a sport that is still far from mainstream in India. Her introduction to squash was almost by chance. When a squash court was built in her town, her father took her to see it. The young girl instantly fell in love with the game. Inspired by her elder sister, who played at district level, Vasundhara decided to pursue squash seriously—even though opportunities around her were scarce.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With no coach or structured training in the beginning, Vasundhara relied on YouTube videos to learn swings, footwork, and shot-making. Later, she began training online with Abhinav Sinha, coach and founder of SportsSkill, making monthly trips to Mumbai for in-person sessions before returning home to practice on her own. Her persistence has already led to remarkable results. In the Girls U-17 category at the Maharashtra State Open Squash Championship held at Bombay Gymkhana, Vasundhara delivered a standout performance, defeating Devashree Arora in a tough semi-final. It was a statement win for a player still making her way in the junior circuit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-csk-recruit-dewald-brevis-speaks-highly-of-veteran-ms-dhoni-awestruck-by-his-humility-1757252820376"><strong>IPL: CSK recruit Dewald Brevis speaks highly of veteran MS Dhoni, awestruck by his humility</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Vasundhara’s big breakthrough came at the 2025 Under-15 Asian Junior Trials, where she finished third, earning a spot in India’s national squad. She has also delivered strong performances at the Poona Club Squash Open and the PSA Challenger Tour (2024) in Pune. These results have established her as one of the most promising young squash players in India in the Girls U-15 category.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Managing school alongside squash hasn’t been easy, but Vasundhara is disciplined. Her mornings begin with fitness and yoga, followed by classes during the day, and evenings are reserved for training. “If I miss school for a tournament, I take notes from friends and complete everything later,” she said in an exclusive interview with WION. It’s a routine that reflects the focus and maturity well beyond her years.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-donald-trump-to-attend-us-open-final-between-sinner-alcaraz-but-here-s-a-twist-broadcasters-asked-to-1757219028586"><strong>Donald Trump to attend US Open final between Sinner, Alcaraz, but here's a twist, 'broadcasters asked to...'</strong></a></p><h3>Inspired by Anahat</h3><p>Her biggest inspiration is Anahat Singh, India’s teenage squash star who competed at the Commonwealth Games. Meeting her during the Asian Junior Tournament in Korea gave Vasundhara a glimpse of the heights she wants to reach. “I want to wear the Indian jersey and win medals for the country on a global stage,” she shared.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Beyond her own ambitions, Vasundhara is also inspiring others. Her success has encouraged children in Kalamb to take up squash, showing them that even small-town athletes can dream big. Her message to aspiring players is simple: “Don’t think your city or background can stop you. If you have a big dream and work hard, anything is possible.” And when asked if she chose squash or squash chose her, she smiled and said, “I think squash chose me.”</p>

WION Exclusive — From YouTube tutorials to Asian Junior trials: How 14-year-old Vasundhara Nangare found her game in squash

At just 14, Vasundhara Nangare is proving that talent and determination can overcome even the biggest challenges. Growing up in Kalamb, a small town in Maharashtra with no squash courts or proper training facilities, she has carved a path in a sport that is still far from mainstream in India. Her introduction to squash was almost by chance. When a squash court was built in her town, her father took her to see it. The young girl instantly fell in love with the game. Inspired by her elder sister, who played at district level, Vasundhara decided to pursue squash seriously—even though opportunities around her were scarce. With no coach or structured training in the beginning, Vasundhara relied on YouTube videos to learn swings, footwork, and shot-making. Later, she began training online with Abhinav Sinha, coach and founder of SportsSkill, making monthly trips to Mumbai for in-person sessions before returning home to practice on her own. Her persistence has already led to remarkable results. In the Girls U-17 category at the Maharashtra State Open Squash Championship held at Bombay Gymkhana, Vasundhara delivered a standout performance, defeating Devashree Arora in a tough semi-final. It was a statement win for a player still making her way in the junior circuit. Also Read: IPL: CSK recruit Dewald Brevis speaks highly of veteran MS Dhoni, awestruck by his humility Vasundhara’s big breakthrough came at the 2025 Under-15 Asian Junior Trials, where she finished third, earning a spot in India’s national squad. She has also delivered strong performances at the Poona Club Squash Open and the PSA Challenger Tour (2024) in Pune. These results have established her as one of the most promising young squash players in India in the Girls U-15 category. Managing school alongside squash hasn’t been easy, but Vasundhara is disciplined. Her mornings begin with fitness and yoga, followed by classes during the day, and evenings are reserved for training. “If I miss school for a tournament, I take notes from friends and complete everything later,” she said in an exclusive interview with WION. It’s a routine that reflects the focus and maturity well beyond her years. Also Read: Donald Trump to attend US Open final between Sinner, Alcaraz, but here's a twist, 'broadcasters asked to...' Inspired by Anahat Her biggest inspiration is Anahat Singh, India’s teenage squash star who competed at the Commonwealth Games. Meeting her during the Asian Junior Tournament in Korea gave Vasundhara a glimpse of the heights she wants to reach. “I want to wear the Indian jersey and win medals for the country on a global stage,” she shared. Beyond her own ambitions, Vasundhara is also inspiring others. Her success has encouraged children in Kalamb to take up squash, showing them that even small-town athletes can dream big. Her message to aspiring players is simple: “Don’t think your city or background can stop you. If you have a big dream and work hard, anything is possible.” And when asked if she chose squash or squash chose her, she smiled and said, “I think squash chose me.”

<p>At 14, Vasundhara Nangare from Kalamb, Maharashtra, rose in squash with no coach, learning from YouTube, winning state titles and aiming to play for India</p>

india-squash

India Squash, News on India Squash, stories on India Squash, articles on India Squash, India Squash stories at Wion, India Squash news, India Squash latest news

india squash

'Anahat has the mindset of a champion—now she’s ready for the big stage', says coach Gregory Gaultier

Anahat Singh stuns world no.10 to win maiden PSA Bronze-level title

India’s youngest squash storm: Meet 15-year-old Anika Dubey

From YouTube lessons to Asian Junior trials: Vasundhara’s squash journey