Anahat Singh's Qatar Classic Journey Ends in Thrilling Five-Game Battle

India's teenage squash sensation Anahat Singh, already a Junior World Champion, faced a tough exit from the QTerminals Qatar Classic, losing a thrilling five-game match to Belgian world No. 9 Tinne Gilis on Sunday. Anahat, ranked 20th globally, showed incredible fight, coming back to lead 2-1 after dropping the first game, before Gilis's experience ultimately prevailed in the deciding set. This high-stakes second-round battle highlights Anahat's growing prowess on the senior circuit against top international talent. This performance is a crucial moment for Anahat, an 18-year-old who recently made history as the youngest Asian female to break into the world's top 20 and clinched the Junior World Championship in July 2026. The Qatar Classic, a prestigious PSA Platinum event with a significant $242,000 prize fund, offers vital ranking points and exposure, positioning players for bigger challenges. Tinne Gilis, a seasoned player who has reached a career-high ranking of world No. 5, proved a formidable opponent, underlining the intense competition at this level. Looking ahead, Anahat, alongside fellow Indian squash players Abhay Singh and Veer Chotrani, will now shift focus to the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, starting September 19. The experience gained from pushing a top-ten player to the absolute limit in a major tournament like the Qatar Classic will be invaluable for her preparation. This hard-fought match demonstrates Anahat's potential to become a consistent force in senior squash, and her journey at the Asian Games will be closely watched by fans hoping for a strong showing from the young Indian contingent.