In the world of sports, few stories are as captivating as a comeback. And when it’s Saurav Ghosal—India’s squash legend—making that comeback, the story becomes nothing short of extraordinary. At 38, an age when most athletes are content with retirement, Saurav is rewriting the rules of the game. His recent victory at the Octane Sydney Classic, a PSA Challenger title, isn’t just a win; it’s a statement. A statement that passion, perseverance, and purpose can defy age and expectations.
The Moment That Sparked It All
It was a text from former world champion Tarek Momen that summed up the disbelief and admiration surrounding Saurav’s return. “I can’t believe you’re doing this all over again!” Momen wrote, after Saurav clinched his 11th PSA title. This victory came a year after his last appearance at the Windy City Open in Chicago in February 2024, and just months after he had announced his retirement in April 2023. For Saurav, this wasn’t just about winning a title; it was about proving to himself—and the world—that he still had what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Why Come Back?
Retirement wasn’t an easy decision for Saurav. After over two decades on the PSA Tour, he had achieved what most athletes only dream of—breaking into the top 10, winning multiple titles, and becoming a trailblazer for Indian squash. But something was missing. The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where squash will make its historic debut, loomed large in his mind. For someone who had spent years campaigning for the sport’s inclusion in the Olympics, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“When I retired, I still wanted to play for India,” Saurav shared. “But I didn’t want to just be there to make up the numbers. I wanted to win, to contribute. And for that, I needed to be sure I had the drive and the physical ability to compete again.”
The Grueling Road to Recovery
The journey back wasn’t easy. After months away from the court, Saurav began training in August 2023. The initial weeks were brutal. “You forget how much your body has to endure,” he said. “The first few sessions felt like I was starting from scratch. But slowly, the muscle memory kicked in, and I began to feel like myself again.”
To test his limits, Saurav traveled to the United States to reunite with his former coach, David Palmer, and physical trainer Damon Brown. Together, they pushed him to his limits, assessing whether his body could withstand the rigors of professional squash. “They believed in me more than I believed in myself,” Saurav admitted. “Their faith gave me the confidence to keep going.”
In December, he headed to Pontefract, England, to train with his longtime friend and fellow squash player James Willstrop. The camaraderie and support from his peers played a crucial role in reigniting his passion for the game.
The Comeback Blueprint
Saurav’s return isn’t just about physical fitness; it’s about evolving his game. “The sport has changed,” he explained. “The physicality has reached another level. I need to add more variation to my game, use the entire court, and rely on my ball control to stay competitive.”
At 38, Saurav is acutely aware of the challenges ahead. “Taking care of my body is more time-consuming now,” he said. “There are days when my body and mind are pulling in opposite directions. But I’ve learned to break my goals into smaller, manageable chunks. Right now, the focus is on getting back on the Tour and preparing for the Asian Games. The Olympics are the ultimate dream, but I know I have to take it one step at a time.”
A Message to Aspiring Athletes
Saurav Ghosal’s comeback is more than just a personal victory; it’s a source of inspiration for millions of aspiring athletes in India. His story is a reminder that age is just a number, and dreams don’t have an expiration date. Whether it’s on the squash court, the cricket field, or the football pitch, the journey is about pushing boundaries and never giving up on what you love.
“It’s not about how many times you fall,” Saurav said. “It’s about how many times you get back up. If you have the passion and the drive, nothing can stop you.”
Why This Story Matters
- Defying Age: Saurav’s journey proves that age is no barrier to achieving greatness.
- Olympic Dream: His pursuit of the 2028 Olympics highlights the importance of perseverance and long-term goals.
- Resilience and Grit: His story is a testament to the power of hard work, self-belief, and the support of a strong team.
A Legacy in the Making
Saurav Ghosal’s comeback is a story for the ages. It’s a story of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. As he gears up for the Asian Games and sets his sights on the 2028 Olympics, Saurav continues to inspire a nation. For sports lovers in India, he is not just a player; he is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of an athlete.
Let his journey remind you that no dream is too big, no goal too far, and no challenge too great. The comeback is always stronger than the setback.