Squash Stars Credit SDAT Support for Asian Games Medals
Indian squash players Joshna Chinappa, Shameena Riaz, and Velavan Senthil Kumar credit the SDAT ELITE scheme for their success at the 2026 Asian Games.
Indian squash stars Joshna Chinappa, Shameena Riaz, and Velavan Senthil Kumar have expressed their deep gratitude to the Tamil Nadu government and the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) following their successful medal hauls at the 2026 Asian Games.
The trio highlighted how state-led initiatives, particularly the specialized financial support systems, played a pivotal role in their ability to compete and succeed on the international stage.
A Historic Medal Haul for Indian Squash
India's performance in the squash arena at the 2026 Asian Games was marked by significant achievements, securing three bronze medals and two silver medals:
- Bronze (Mixed Doubles): Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthil Kumar.
- Bronze (Women’s Team): Anahat Singh, Joshna Chinappa, Tanvi Khanna, and Shameena Riaz.
- Bronze (Men’s Team): Abhay Singh, Veer Chotrani, Velavan Senthilkumar, and Suraj Kumar Chand.
- Silver (Women’s Singles): Anahat Singh.
- Silver (Men’s Singles): Abhay Singh.
The ELITE Scheme: A Game Changer for Athletes
For veteran player Joshna Chinappa, who participated in her seventh consecutive Asian Games, the support from the state was a cornerstone of her preparation. She specifically credited the ELITE scheme for providing the freedom to train without geographical constraints.
"It was my 7th Asian Games and it was special for me to be able to contribute to team India and bring medals. I thank the CM, Sports Minister and SDAT for all the support... To be a part of the ELITE scheme was a huge boost for me; I was able to go anywhere to train," Chinappa stated.
The Special Scholarship for Elite Sports Persons Scheme is designed to provide need-based assistance to athletes with international medal potential, offering financial aid of up to Rs. 30.00 lakh per person annually.
From Bronze to Olympic Dreams
First-time Asian Games participant Shameena Riaz shared her joy at returning home with a bronze medal. She noted that the support from Sports Minister Aadhav Arjuna, including cash incentives provided even before the tournament began, allowed the team to focus entirely on their training and requirements.
"I feel that SDAT and the state government provide immense support for the sport we play," Riaz said. "My next goal is to train hard and hopefully aim for the Olympics."
Similarly, Velavan Senthil Kumar emphasized how the ELITE scheme facilitated his ability to travel abroad for high-level training and acquire the necessary equipment to compete at the highest level. After a successful stint in Japan, Kumar has now set his sights on the 2028 Olympics as his next major milestone.