Saurav Ghosal, India's Top Squash Player, Retires from Professional Circuit

Saurav Ghosal, India's most successful male squash player, announced his retirement from the professional circuit on April 22, 2022, after a glittering 21-year career. The 37-year-old from Chennai, known as the 'Peter Pan' of Indian squash, broke numerous barriers and inspired countless players with his skills and perseverance.

Ghosal turned professional in 2003 and has since competed in over 500 matches, winning 281 matches and 10 titles. Some of his major accomplishments include winning India's first-ever Asian Games singles medal in 2006, clinching four Asian Games medals, and entering the top 10 of the world rankings in 2019. He also had notable wins against top Egyptian players who have dominated the sport.

Despite the physical and mental toll of the professional tour, Ghosal expressed a desire to continue playing for India, stating that representing the country has been his biggest privilege and honor. He is hopeful that he can maintain the desire and physical ability to compete at the highest level, including potentially representing India at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Why this matters: Saurav Ghosal's retirement marks the end of an era in Indian squash. His achievements have elevated the status of the sport in the country and inspired a new generation of players to pursue excellence on the global stage.

Ghosal cited the need for time to heal as the reason for his retirement from the professional circuit. However, he plans to devote his time to creating processes and systems to elevate the coaching and expertise available to the next generation of Indian squash stars. Ghosal would like to mentor a few young players in India and develop grassroots-level programs to nurture young talent.

While disappointed to have missed out on an Olympic medal, as squash has finally earned a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Ghosal is grateful for the sport's inclusion and hopes to contribute to the development of Indian squash in his post-retirement phase. "I needed time to heal. I still have the desire to play for India, and representing the country has been my biggest privilege and honor," Ghosal said, expressing his commitment to the sport and his country.

Key Takeaways

• Saurav Ghosal, India's top male squash player, retired after 21-year career.
• Ghosal won India's first Asian Games singles medal and reached world top 10.
• Retirement marks end of an era, as Ghosal inspired new generation of players.
• Ghosal plans to mentor young players and develop grassroots programs in India.
• Ghosal hopes to represent India at 2028 Olympics, despite missing out on medal.