Bengaluru
Veteran Indian squash star Joshna Chinappa remains driven by ambition despite being in the twilight of her illustrious career, with her focus firmly set on making a strong impact at the upcoming Asian Games 2026.
A stalwart of Indian squash for over two decades, the 39-year-old has been instrumental in elevating the sport’s profile in the country alongside contemporaries like Saurav Ghosal and Dipika Pallikal Karthik. Turning professional in 2003, Chinappa has consistently represented India on the global stage with distinction.
Speaking during a promotional event in Bengaluru, Chinappa emphasised that her commitment to the sport remains as strong as ever, even as her approach has evolved with time. Currently ranked No. 72 in the world, she continues to be among India’s top players, second only to rising star Anahat Singh.
Acknowledging the physical demands of the professional circuit, Chinappa said she is now more selective about the tournaments she participates in. Managing workload and maintaining peak fitness have become crucial priorities as she prepares for major competitions.
Her recent outing at the Indian Open in Mumbai saw her reach the quarterfinals, offering a glimpse of her enduring competitiveness. However, the larger goal remains the Asian Games, where she hopes to deliver a strong performance.
Chinappa also welcomed squash’s inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, calling it a transformative moment for the sport. She noted that Olympic recognition has already begun to boost funding, corporate support, and overall awareness, benefiting the next generation of players.
Highlighting the impact of this shift, she pointed out that young athletes today are receiving opportunities and resources much earlier in their careers compared to her time.
Among the emerging talents, Chinappa reserved special praise for Anahat Singh, describing her as a promising medal contender for the 2028 Olympics. She also acknowledged the progress of other young Indian players, expressing optimism about the sport’s future.
As she approaches the final phase of her career, Chinappa’s determination and experience continue to inspire, with one more major milestone firmly in her sights.