By Swetha Anil Kumar
India created history by defeating top seeds Hong Kong China 3-0 in the Squash World Cup 2025 final, held at the Express Avenue Mall in Chennai on Sunday.
The four-member team was led by former women’s top ten Joshna Chinappa with current world No. 28 Anahat Singh, men’s No. 29 Abhay Singh and No. 45 Velavan Senthilkumar as its members.
India beat Switzerland and Brazil 4-0 in the group stage, then defeated South Africa and two-time champions Egypt 3-0 to reach the mixed-team squash final.
Joshna Chinappa set the tone for the host with a 7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1 win over Ka Yi Lee, who was ranked 42 places higher, in 23 minutes.
Joshna won the opening game comfortably but was tested as Lee increased the pace to level the match. The third game proved crucial, with Chinappa staying patient to edge it 7-5 before pulling away in the fourth to seal the win.
Abhay Singh followed with a one-sided contest, defeating reigning Asian champion Alex Lau in straight games. The 27-year-old took control early, dictating play and never allowing Lau to settle into long exchanges.
Anahat Singh then ensured there was no delay in the outcome, overcoming Tomato Ho in just 16 minutes to seal the tie and confirm India’s title.
This is India’s maiden Squash World Cup title. India had previously won bronze in the 2023 edition.
Seeded second, the Indian squash team went till the final without dropping a single match.
The win made India only the fourth nation, after Australia, England and Egypt, to claim the Squash World Cup title in its five editions.
The tournament was held in Chennai for the third consecutive time.
This historic win has been celebrated by fans across India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team for their performance, saying this victory will; inspire young athletes across India.