Suraj Kumar Chand Stages Stunning Comeback to Reach FISU World University Squash Championships Final

India's Suraj Kumar Chand delivered one of the most memorable performances of the 2026 FISU World University Squash Championships, battling back from two games down to defeat France's Joshua Phinera (Jacques) in a thrilling five-game semifinal and book his place in the gold medal match.

Playing before an enthusiastic home crowd at Somaiya Vidyavihar University in Mumbai, Suraj recovered from the brink of elimination to register a sensational 3-2 victory (9-11, 10-12, 11-5, 11-2, 12-10) in a contest that lasted 65 minutes.

The dramatic win keeps India's hopes alive for the men's singles title and sets up a championship clash against Hungary's Benedek Takács, who advanced after defeating fellow Indian Om Semwal in the other semifinal.

The semifinal began with both players producing high-quality squash from the opening rally. Joshua Phinera looked sharp in the early exchanges, using his movement and accurate shot placement to keep Suraj under constant pressure. The opening game remained closely contested before the French player edged it 11-9, taking an early advantage.

The second game proved even tighter. Suraj responded strongly and came within touching distance of levelling the match, but Phinera held his nerve in the crucial moments to claim the game 12-10. At 2-0 down, the Indian found himself staring at elimination.

With the Frenchman needing just one more game to reach the final, momentum appeared firmly in his favour.

Rather than allowing disappointment to affect his game, Suraj responded in outstanding fashion. The third game marked a dramatic shift in momentum. Playing with far greater aggression while reducing his unforced errors, the Indian began dictating longer rallies and forcing mistakes from his opponent. His improved control around the court allowed him to comfortably secure the third game 11-5, reducing the deficit and giving himself renewed belief.

That confidence carried directly into the fourth game. Suraj dominated almost every exchange, controlling the pace from the front of the court while moving the Frenchman relentlessly around the four walls. The result was one-sided.

The Indian stormed through the fourth game 11-2, completing a remarkable turnaround and forcing a deciding fifth game.

The deciding game delivered exactly the kind of spectacle expected from a world championship semifinal. Both players produced exceptional squash, matching each other point for point as the tension inside the venue continued to rise. Joshua Phinera looked to have regained control late in the contest and held two match points, placing Suraj on the verge of defeat once again.

However, the Indian refused to surrender. Displaying extraordinary composure under immense pressure, Suraj saved both match points before gradually shifting the momentum back in his favour. The home favourite eventually completed the comeback by taking the deciding game 12-10, triggering emotional celebrations inside the arena after one of the tournament's finest matches.

The victory highlighted not only Suraj's physical endurance but also his remarkable mental strength.

Coming back from 0-2 down in squash requires exceptional resilience, particularly against an opponent of Phinera's quality. Suraj's ability to reset mentally after narrowly losing the opening two games proved decisive. Instead of becoming frustrated, he gradually improved his shot selection, increased the pace of his movement and began controlling rallies more effectively.

His willingness to remain patient during long exchanges eventually forced errors from his opponent, allowing him to build confidence as the match progressed. Saving two match points in the deciding game further demonstrated the belief he carried throughout the contest.

Those moments often separate champions from the rest of the field.

The victory sends Suraj into the gold medal match, where he will face Hungary's Benedek Takács. Takács secured his place in the final after overcoming India's Om Semwal in the other semifinal. The championship clash now offers Suraj an opportunity to complete a remarkable tournament by adding the FISU World University Squash Championship title to his growing list of achievements.

https://www.indiasportshub.com/articles/indian-men-s-team-stuns-england-to-reach-world-junior-squash-championships-semifinals

Having already demonstrated his fighting qualities in the semifinal, the Indian will enter the final full of confidence.

Suraj's run to the final also reflects the continued strength of Indian squash at both junior and senior levels. India has consistently produced world-class players over the past two decades, and performances at university-level competitions continue to underline the country's growing depth. With the championship being hosted in Mumbai, Suraj's progress has also provided home fans with another reason to celebrate.

His ability to deliver under pressure in front of local supporters adds further significance to an already memorable campaign.

Suraj's impressive run comes at an important stage of his career. Having already earned selection for the upcoming Asian Games, the confidence gained from this tournament could prove valuable as he prepares for even bigger international assignments.

Matches of this intensity provide invaluable experience, particularly when they involve overcoming adversity against high-quality opponents. The semifinal showcased every quality required at the highest level—technical ability, physical fitness, tactical intelligence and mental resilience.

Suraj Kumar Chand's victory over Joshua Phinera will be remembered as one of the standout matches of the 2026 FISU World University Squash Championships. Recovering from a two-game deficit, saving two match points in the deciding game and eventually prevailing after 65 minutes of relentless competition reflected the spirit and determination that define elite athletes.

Now, just one match separates him from the World University title. Standing between Suraj and the gold medal is Hungary's Benedek Takács, but after producing one of the tournament's greatest comebacks, the Indian will enter the final believing he can complete an unforgettable week on home soil. With momentum firmly on his side and the support of the Mumbai crowd behind him, Suraj has earned the opportunity to chase one of the biggest titles of his career.