India clinched its first-ever Squash World Cup title with a commanding 3-0 victory over top seed Hong Kong in Chennai on Sunday.
Joshna Chinappa, ranked 79 globally, set the tone by defeating Ka Yi Lee in four games. Despite Lee’s fightback in the second game, Chinappa held firm, edging the third 7-5 before racing through the fourth to secure the opening point.
Abhay Singh followed with a dominant performance against reigning Asian champion Alex Lau. The 27-year-old controlled rallies from the start, winning in straight games and leaving Hong Kong with little room to respond.
Teen sensation Anahat Singh sealed the triumph in style, dispatching Tomato Ho in just 16 minutes. Her aggressive play ensured India’s historic gold, surpassing its previous best of a bronze medal in 2023.
The Express Avenue Mall provided a vibrant backdrop as fans witnessed India’s finest showing in the tournament’s history. For the first time, two Asian nations contested the final, underscoring the sport’s growing regional strength.
Coach Harinder Singh hailed the victory as a landmark moment, praising the team’s composure under pressure. Chinappa described the win as one of her career highlights, ranking it among her top five performances.
India’s 3-0 triumph not only delivered a historic title but also showcased the depth and resilience of its squad, marking a new chapter for squash in the country.
Result: India bt. Hong Kong 3-0
- Joshna Chinappa bt. Ka Yi Lee 7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1
- Abhay Singh bt. Alex Lau 7-1, 7-4, 7-4
- Anahat Singh bt. Tomato Ho 7-2, 7-2, 7-5
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