Indian squash witnessed a moment of pure sporting theatre in Indore, as 39-year-old Joshna Chinappa rolled back the years to enter the final of the SRFI Indian Open PSA Challenger 15K, ensuring an all-Indian summit clash against teenage prodigy Anahat Singh.
The former Asian Champion delivered a composed, clinical, and deeply inspiring performance to defeat Egypt’s Junior World Championship silver medallist and second seed Nadien El Hammamy 3–1 (7-11, 11-5, 11-7, 11-7) in the semifinals. For a player who has been carrying Indian squash on her shoulders for nearly two decades, this was another masterclass in experience, resilience, and craft.
A Veteran Who Refuses to Slow Down
Joshna’s run this week is not an isolated burst of form; it has been building steadily through the season.
Just weeks ago, she captured the Japan Open title, her first PSA crown in ten years, reasserting her competitive presence on the world tour. Now, in Indore, she has complemented that resurgence with a series of controlled, tactical wins that underline why she remains one of India’s greatest squash players. Her campaign began with a strong start in the Round of 16, where she defeated world No. 66 and highly rated European junior Lauren Baltayan (France) 3–1 after dropping the first game. Joshna’s ability to adapt mid-match, slow down rallies, and extract errors from her young opponent showcased her trademark strategic discipline.
In the quarterfinals, she overpowered Spain’s Sofia Mateos in straight games, demonstrating sharp movement, immaculate length, and the finesse that has marked her long career. That win set up a high-stakes semifinal against Nadien El Hammamy 11th on the world junior circuit and one of Egypt’s brightest emerging stars.
The Semifinal: Experience vs. Youth
The semifinal was a classic clash of eras. Nadien El Hammamy entered the match as the favourite fitter, younger, and riding a strong season but Joshna had the one thing El Hammamy did not: the experience of hundreds of high-pressure matches.
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After losing the first game 7–11, Joshna recalibrated brilliantly. She tightened her lines, reduced the pace, and played into the back corners with precision. The shift was immediate:
- Game 2 (11-5): Joshna dictated tempo, forcing longer rallies that frustrated the Egyptian.
- Game 3 (11-7): Her trademark volleys and soft drops came alive, drawing El Hammamy into uncomfortable positions.
- Game 4 (11-7): She stayed composed, controlling the T with maturity and closing out the match with poise.
The veteran outlasted the youngster not with speed, but with timing, tactical clarity, and unwavering mental strength. The result sets up a dream final: Joshna Chinappa vs. Anahat Singh, two players separated by more than two decades, yet bound by extraordinary talent.
Across Indian squash history, both women share a remarkable bond:
- Joshna became the youngest Indian National Champion in 2000 at the age of 14.
- Anahat repeated the feat in 2023, becoming champion at 15.
Now, in 2025, they meet in a professional PSA final a beautiful full-circle moment for the sport in India. One is a legend who has led India in every major event; the other is a phenom with 12 PSA titles already and chasing her 13th.
It is rare in Indian sport to witness a generational duel like this mentor vs. future, legacy vs. rise, the evergreen queen vs. the fearless prodigy.
Anahat’s Dominant Run Adds to the Storyline
On her part, Anahat Singh has been unstoppable this week. She swept past Germany’s Katerina Tycova 3–0 in the quarterfinals and produced a thrilling five-game comeback win in the semifinals to reach the title round. Her youthful explosiveness will provide a sharp contrast to Joshna’s maturity on court. Fans and former players including Saurav Ghosal, present in the stands have expressed excitement at the prospect of witnessing this generational battle in such a picturesque setting at Daly College.
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This final brings together two contrasting strengths:
- Joshna’s unmatched tactical nous, precision hitting, and calm under pressure
vs. - Anahat’s speed, early ball-taking ability, and fearless attacking squash
Joshna will look to slow the pace, extend rallies, and force errors. Anahat will push the tempo, volley aggressively, and deny Joshna time. In many ways, this is not just a match it is a milestone moment for Indian squash.
India has already secured the title.
Now the only question remains: Will the evergreen queen lift another trophy at 39? Or will the rising star claim her 13th PSA crown?
Whatever the outcome, the SRFI Indian Open 2025 final will be remembered as one of the most significant all-Indian showcases in recent memory a celebration of legacy, renewal, and the bright future of Indian squash.
