India Beats Hong Kong 3-0 to Win First Squash World Cup

India made history by winning its first-ever Squash World Cup title, defeating Hong Kong 3-0 in the final on Sunday, December 14, in Chennai. The Indian team, featuring Joshna Chinappa, Abhay Singh, and Anahat Singh, produced a dominant and composed performance in front of a cheering home crowd to topple the pre-tournament favourites. This is India’s best result in the competition, surpassing the bronze medal achieved in 2023, while Hong Kong also recorded its best-ever finish.

Veteran Joshna Chinappa, ranked 79th in the world, started the final with a resilient display, defeating Ka Yi Lee 7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1 in 23 minutes. Chinappa showed great experience, handling pressure well after losing the second game and clinching the tightly contested third game before dominating the fourth. Her calm and tactical play set the tone for India’s historic win.

Abhay Singh followed with a strong performance in the second match, defeating reigning Asian champion Alex Lau in straight games 7-1, 7-4, 7-4. Singh’s confident and aggressive play extended India’s lead to 2-0, putting them firmly in control of the tie.

Teenager Anahat Singh completed the 3-0 victory by defeating Tomato Ho 7-2, 7-2, 7-5 in just 16 minutes. Showing maturity and precision beyond her years, Anahat dominated rallies and ensured that Hong Kong had no chance to recover. Her performance sealed India’s first World Cup title in squash history.

Indian coach Harinder Singh praised the team, calling the triumph a “special moment” for Indian squash. Joshna Chinappa said the victory was among the best of her career and highlighted the significance of winning on home soil, calling it one of her top five performances. The win marks a major milestone for Indian squash and demonstrates the growing strength and competitiveness of the nation in the international squash arena.