It was a defining moment in Indian sporting history when Dipika Pallikal and Joshna Chinappa clinched India’s first-ever gold medal in squash at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. Their victory not only rewrote the nation’s squash record books but also heralded a new era for the sport in India.
The dynamic duo triumphed in the women’s doubles squash final, defeating the top-seeded English pair of Jenny Duncalf and Laura Massaro in a gripping contest. Displaying impeccable coordination, aggressive play, and nerves of steel, Dipika and Joshna overcame the odds to claim the top podium spot — a feat never before achieved by Indian players in the Commonwealth Games’ squash arena.
Their gold medal was more than just a win; it was a breakthrough. For years, squash in India had remained in the shadows despite the presence of world-class talent. This victory brought the sport into the limelight and inspired a new generation of players across the country.
Both Dipika and Joshna were already trailblazers in their own right. Dipika was the first Indian woman to break into the top 10 of the PSA world rankings, and Joshna, a multiple-time national champion, had steadily built her international credentials. But together, their 2014 partnership became iconic — a symbol of perseverance, teamwork, and sporting excellence.
Eleven years on, their legacy continues to influence Indian squash, with young athletes drawing motivation from their historic win. The 2014 gold remains a shining benchmark and a proud moment etched in India’s Commonwealth Games legacy.
