Golden Girl of Pune: 14-Year-Old Anika Dubey Joins Indian Team for Asian Team Championship

Pune, 19th December 2024: At just 14 years old, Anika Dubey, affectionately known as the “Golden Girl of Pune,” has achieved an extraordinary milestone by securing a place on the Indian team for the upcoming Asian Team Championship in Hong Kong, scheduled for February 2025. This remarkable achievement makes her the youngest player from Maharashtra to represent India in such a prestigious international tournament.

Anika’s journey to this landmark moment is a story of talent, determination, and relentless hard work. With three national titles under her belt, she has already established herself as the most successful junior squash player from Pune in Maharashtra. Her unparalleled success on the court has set new benchmarks in Indian squash, earning her admiration and inspiring a new generation of young athletes.

“To play for India is a dream come true,” says Anika. “It’s an honor to represent my country and showcase the hard work I’ve put in over the years.”

Anika’s rise to prominence has been powered by the unwavering support of Chance2Sports, particularly through their Kanga Kids program. This initiative, founded in memory of Noshir Kanga, has provided her with the resources and opportunities necessary to excel in the highly competitive world of squash.

Her coach, Abhinav Sinha, has played a pivotal role in shaping her career. Known for his calm and methodical approach, Abhinav has guided Anika to become a well-rounded athlete ready for the international stage. “Anika’s success is a testament to her hard work and commitment,” Abhinav remarks. “She’s focused, fearless, and always eager to learn.”

The backing of her family has also been instrumental in her success. From long hours of practice to national tournaments, Anika’s parents have been her strongest pillars of support, ensuring she has everything she needs to chase her dreams.

As the Asian Team Championship draws closer, Anika is leaving no stone unturned in her preparation. Her rigorous training schedule reflects her determination to excel on the international platform. Beyond the competition, she is acutely aware of the responsibility of representing India and is committed to giving her best performance.

“This is just the beginning,” she says confidently. “I’m excited to see what the future holds and to keep making my city and country proud.”