CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Redwood City/Bhopal. Indian squash player Anahat Singh has delivered a stunning performance on the international stage, recording the biggest win of her career. The 18-year-old Anahat defeated Egypt’s Noor El Sherbini, an eight-time world champion and the world No. 3, in just 30 minutes at the Silicon Valley Open 2026 in the United States. With the win, she entered the quarter-finals of the tournament.
Anahat registered an impressive straight-games victory in the pre-quarter-final, beating El Sherbini 11-8, 11-8, 11-7. The Egyptian player was the top seed in the tournament and was considered the strong favourite for the match. Despite that, the Indian player showed attacking intent from the start and sealed the contest by winning three consecutive games. This was the first meeting between the two players.
After the match, Anahat said she had watched El Sherbini play since childhood and draws inspiration from her. She said the Indian national coach had also encouraged her to trust her own game. According to Anahat, her strategy worked well and she stayed focused on it throughout the match.
Anahat had earlier produced a strong performance by winning the World Junior Squash Championship title in 2026. Recently, she also brought pride to the country by winning the silver medal in the women’s singles category at the Asian Games. Her win over El Sherbini at the Silicon Valley Open has further highlighted her growing confidence and strengthening claim at the senior level.
Anahat will now face Egypt’s Salma Hany in the quarter-final. Her victory has lifted the mood in Indian squash and strengthened hopes around her prospects ahead of the Los Angeles Olympics 2028.
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