Anahat Singh Makes History with Silver Medal at Asian Games 2026

Nagoya, September 27 (Daily Kiran) : Anahat Singh, the rising squash star from India, made headlines at the Asian Games 2026 in Nagoya by clinching a historic silver medal. After her final match against Malaysia’s defending champion, S. Shivasangari Subramaniam, Anahat expressed her determination to fight until the last point, despite being pushed back significantly during the game.

Reflecting on her performance after the women’s singles final, Anahat stated, “I honestly didn’t want to let it go easily. The score was 3-0 against me, but I didn’t want to concede even a single point without a fight. I may not have played my best squash today, but I wanted to keep pushing until the very end because you never know what might happen.”

At just 18 years old, Anahat has become the first Indian woman to win a silver medal in women’s singles squash at the Asian Games. She also made history by being the first Indian to reach the finals of this continental tournament.

World number 5 Shivasangari maintained control of the match with her aggressive play and solid defense, successfully defending the gold medal she won at Hangzhou 2022. Nevertheless, Anahat expressed satisfaction with her overall campaign, having fought back from two games down to defeat Japan’s world number 6, Satomi Watanabe, in the semifinals.

“The competition was very tough. Shivasangari is ranked fifth in the world, and Satomi is sixth, so competing against top players is special. I am very happy with the silver medal,” she remarked.

“This is my first Asian Games in the individual category and my second overall. Competing at this level and learning from it is thrilling for every athlete. Winning a medal adds to the joy,” she added.

With this silver medal, Anahat narrowly missed securing direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, where squash will be included for the first time. The singles gold medalist at the Asian Games was set to gain a direct quota spot.

Regarding her near miss, Anahat said, “I gave it my all, but some things work out while others don’t. I hope the next two years will be fruitful.”

The reigning junior world champion also had a message for young girls aspiring to build a career in sports. “I would just say, give it your all. If you love something and are passionate about it, don’t let it go easily. Keep working hard and enjoy every moment,” she advised.

Anahat credited her success to her family, coach, government support, and sponsors. “I can dedicate this achievement to many people. First and foremost, my family, my parents, and my sister, who have supported me at every step. And my coach, without whom I couldn’t have done any of this,” she said.

The President of India also congratulated Anahat on social media, stating, “Heartfelt congratulations to Anahat Singh for winning the silver medal in women’s singles squash at the Asian Games 2026. You have made history as the first Indian woman to win a medal in squash singles at the Asian Games.”