Indian squash has achieved a historic feat at the Asian Squash Doubles Championships 2025, securing all three gold medals in the men's, women's, and mixed doubles categories. This unprecedented triumph marks a new chapter in India's squash journey, highlighting the nation's growing dominance in the sport on the continental stage. The championships were held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
In the men's doubles final, the top-seeded Indian pair of Abhay Singh and Velavan Senthilkumar faced a tough challenge from Pakistan's Noor Zaman and Nasir Iqbal. After losing the first game 9-11, the Indian duo demonstrated remarkable resilience and teamwork, winning the next two games 11-5, 11-5 to clinch the gold medal. This victory not only secured the championship but also marked a successful title defense for Abhay Singh and Velavan Senthilkumar, who had won the same title in 2024. The match lasted for a grueling 88 minutes, showcasing the players' endurance and determination. In the semi-finals, the pair defeated Hong Kong's Chi Him Wong and Ming Hong Tang.
The women's doubles final witnessed another thrilling comeback as Joshna Chinappa and Anahat Singh, seeded second, battled against the top-seeded Malaysian pair of Ainaa Amani and Xin Ying Yee. After losing the first game 8-11, the Indian duo displayed exceptional composure and coordination to win the subsequent games 11-9, 11-10. The nail-biting finish underscored the intense competition and the players' unwavering spirit. This win is particularly significant as it marks the first time an Indian pair has won the women's doubles title at the Asian Championships. En route to the final, Joshna and Anahat defeated Hong Kong's Po Yui Kirstie Wong and Yee Lam Toby Tse.
Adding to the historic sweep, Abhay Singh and Anahat Singh, the top-seeded mixed doubles pair, secured their second title of the championships by defeating Malaysia's Rachel Arnold and Ameeshenraj Chandaran in the final. The Indian duo dominated the match, winning in straight games 11-9, 11-7. Their seamless coordination and strategic gameplay led them to a well-deserved victory, solidifying India's dominance in the mixed doubles category. Earlier in the competition, they defeated another Malaysian pair, Ainaa Amani and Syafiq Kamal, in the semi-finals.
This clean sweep of gold medals at the Asian Squash Doubles Championships 2025 is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent of the Indian squash players. It also highlights the effectiveness of the training programs and support systems in place for the athletes. The victories are expected to inspire a new generation of squash players in India and further elevate the sport's popularity in the country. The success of the Indian contingent underscores the country's emergence as a major force in international squash, promising a bright future for the sport in India.
