India’s rising squash sensation, 17-year-old Anahat Singh, has taken the squash world by storm, storming into the quarterfinals of the Canadian Open in Toronto with a stunning upset over world No. 20 Melissa Alves of France. The reigning national champion, ranked 43rd globally, showcased her skill and resilience in a thrilling 41-minute battle on Sunday, October 26, 2025, defeating the sixth-seeded Alves 12-10, 12-10, 8-11, 11-2. This victory marks a significant milestone in Anahat’s burgeoning career, as she continues to make waves on the international stage at the USD 96,250 PSA Silver event.
The Delhi-born prodigy displayed remarkable composure and tactical brilliance, edging out Alves in tightly contested first two games before dominating the fourth to secure her place in the quarterfinals. Anahat’s performance underlines her growing reputation as a formidable force in professional squash, blending agility, precision, and mental toughness. She now faces a daunting challenge against second seed Tinne Gilis of Belgium, with a coveted semifinal spot on the line. A win against Gilis would further cement Anahat’s status as one of India’s brightest sporting talents.
Meanwhile, at the Toronto Athletic Club Open, India’s sixth-seeded Veer Chotrani fought valiantly but fell short in a dramatic round-of-16 match against England’s Perry Malik. The intense five-game clash saw Malik triumph 11-7, 11-5, 9-11, 5-11, 11-5, ending Chotrani’s campaign in the tournament. Despite the loss, Chotrani’s spirited performance highlighted his potential, as he pushed Malik to the limit in a match that showcased the depth of talent in Indian squash.
Also Read: Indian Jiu-Jitsu Athlete Rohini Kalam Found Dead at Madhya Pradesh Home, Police Investigating
Anahat’s breakthrough victory comes at a time when Indian squash is gaining global recognition, with young players like her leading the charge. Her ability to compete against top-tier opponents at such a young age has drawn praise from fans and analysts alike, positioning her as a key figure in the sport’s future. As she prepares to take on Gilis, the squash community eagerly awaits whether Anahat can continue her dream run in Toronto, bringing her one step closer to a historic title.
Also Read: Harmanpreet Backs “Strong, United” India as Pratika Rawal Eyes Semifinal Return