Why does Anahat Singh wear protective glasses during squash matches? Know here
(Courtesy : @anahatsingh13/Instagram)
Anahat Singh recently won silver at the Asian Games 2026.
India’s Anahat Singh walked onto the court for the Asian Games 2026 women’s singles squash final wearing protective glasses — and it wasn’t a style choice, nor was it about eyesight. Her opponent was also among Asia’s best, but only Anahat needed the glasses.
The 18-year-old reigning junior world champion secured a victory, winning 9-11, 11-13, 12-10, 11-6, 11-3—against Japan’s World No. 6 Satomi Watanabe in the semi-finals, after trailing 0-2. She became the first Indian woman to reach the squash singles final at the Asian Games.
Anahat faced Malaysia’s Sivasangari Subramaniam in the final. Sivasangari won the final 11-4, 11-4, 11-6 in 28 minutes. The Indian took silver, and most of her opponents at the Games played without eyewear.
So what separates them? It’s Age. Anahat was born on March 13, 2008. According to the World Squash Federation, every junior (under the age of 19) must wear appropriate protective eyewear at all times during play.
RELATED: Asian Games 2026 – Anahat Singh becomes first Indian woman to win silver in squash singles
The rule also applies when a junior plays in a senior event, so the Asian Games made no difference. Players are responsible for ensuring that their eyewear meets the required quality and safety standards.
For adult singles matches, World Squash recommends the use of protective eyewear only. It is not compulsory.
Which eyewear is allowed?
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However, not every pair of sports glasses meets the standards required for use in squash. World Squash names ISO 18527-2:2021 as its international standard.
It also recognises BS EN 18527-2:2021 in the UK and F3164-19 in the US. The federation maintains a list of eyewear products that have been tested and approved for use in squash.
Ordinary prescription spectacles are not considered suitable. Players who need glasses must wear approved squash eyewear over them, or prescription protective eyewear designed and approved for squash.
The rules also depend on the format. In doubles, players of all ages must wear eyewear that meets the standard.
In Squash 57, it is not mandatory but is encouraged, especially for less experienced players. For training and practice, World Squash strongly recommends eyewear for everyone, and coaches are urged to prioritise it.
The reason is safety. Squash is played in a small space, two players move quickly around each other, and the ball travels fast. The risk of serious injury is generally low, but a ball or racket hitting the eye can have significant consequences.
Why does Anahat Singh wear protective glasses in squash?
She is 18, and World Squash rules make protective eyewear compulsory for all players under 19, even in senior events like the Asian Games.
What kind of protective glasses are allowed in squash?
They must meet a recognised safety standard such as ISO 18527-2:2021. Normal prescription spectacles are not accepted, so players who need glasses must wear approved squash eyewear over them or approved prescription eyewear made for squash
How did Anahat Singh fare at the Asian Games 2026?
Anahat won the silver in squash singles at Asian Games 2026.
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