Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated the Indian squash team in New Delhi after their landmark victory at the Squash World Cup held in Chennai.
The mixed squad — Joshna Chinappa, Abhay Singh, Velavan Senthilkumar and Anahat Singh — scripted history last Saturday by claiming India’s first-ever Squash World Cup title.
India outplayed top-seeded Hong Kong 3-0 in the final, becoming only the fourth nation to win the World Cup, joining elite company alongside Australia, England and Egypt.
“We Are Creating Milestones” – Mandaviya
Congratulating the players, Dr. Mandaviya called the triumph “a proud moment for Indian sport,” noting that the country’s momentum continues across disciplines.
“India is doing so well in the sports sector. One after another, we are creating milestones,” he said, recalling the recent Women’s Cricket World Cup victory as another highlight.
He also praised the team’s undefeated run throughout the tournament and expressed confidence in India’s growing sporting capacity.
TOPS Support Strengthens India’s Squash Push
The Minister highlighted the role of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) in boosting high-performance preparation through international exposure, expert guidance, and sustained support to top players.
Seventeen-year-old Anahat Singh credited the Chennai crowd for lifting the team’s spirits, adding that playing her first World Cup alongside seniors was a valuable learning experience.
Eyes on Asian Games 2026 and LA 2028 Olympics
With squash set to make its Olympic debut at Los Angeles 2028, Team India now shifts focus to upcoming challenges.
Padma Shri and Arjuna Awardee Joshna Chinappa, who hopes to qualify for the games, said the World Cup experience has boosted confidence ahead of the Asian Games 2026 in Japan.
The landmark victory not only signals India’s rising stature in global squash but also fuels greater expectations for future podium finishes on the international stage.
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