Egyptians are like any other opponent: Anahat Singh

Fresh from becoming the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championships title, Anahat Singh has dismissed suggestions that Egyptian players enjoy a psychological edge, saying she has grown up competing against them and treats them like any other opponent. The 17-year-old scripted history by defeating Egypt’s Amina Orfi in the final in Ontario, Canada, ending the country’s long wait for a world junior singles crown.

“I’ve grown up playing Egyptians since I’ve started playing the sport. It doesn’t really affect me when I go on court. It’s just like playing another opponent, no matter what the nationality is,” Anahat told after returning.

The title was particularly satisfying for Anahat after several near misses in the tournament over the last four years.

“This tournament hasn’t always been the best for me for the last four years. I’ve always come really close but failed to overcome it. So I’m really glad that I was able to do it this year,” she said.

Anahat is happy about emulating former India No. 1 Joshna Chinappa, the country’s previous best performer at the junior worlds.

“I’ve grown up watching Joshna play and have really been inspired by her. So getting to do it after her is something that I’m really happy about,” she said.

Having now graduated from the junior circuit, Anahat said she will shift her attention to senior competitions before targeting Asian Games.