PV Sindhu Advances to Quarterfinals at Japan Open with Dominant Win

PV Sindhu delivered an outstanding performance at the Japan Open Super 750, defeating China's Han Yue in straight games to reach the quarterfinals. The two-time Olympic medalist showcased her skills with a decisive 21-16, 21-14 victory, extending her head-to-head record against Han to 8-1. Sindhu's impressive display comes as she is now the last remaining Indian competitor in the tournament, following the exit of other players. She will face former world champion Nozomi Okuhara in the next round, keeping India's hopes alive in the competition.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 16, 2026, 13:27 IST

Sindhu's Impressive Performance at Japan Open

A file image of Indian badminton ace PV Sindhu (Photo: IANS)

Tokyo, July 16: In a remarkable display at the Japan Open Super 750, PV Sindhu triumphed over China's world No. 5, Han Yue, winning in straight sets to secure her spot in the women's singles quarterfinals.

The two-time Olympic champion showcased her skills with a decisive 21-16, 21-14 victory, completing the match in just 35 minutes and improving her head-to-head record against Han to 8-1.

This victory stands out as one of Sindhu's strongest performances this season, as she navigated an early challenge before taking full control of the match against the fifth seed.

The initial phase of the match was tightly contested, with Han Yue attempting to set the pace. However, Sindhu gradually found her rhythm, dominating the rallies with precise shot placement and aggressive play from the baseline. Her consistency allowed her to pull ahead in the first game, which she clinched 21-16.

After the break, any chance of a comeback from Han Yue was swiftly eliminated. Sindhu launched into the second game with fierce intensity, scoring eight consecutive points to take an 8-0 lead. Although Han Yue made a brief attempt to close the gap, Sindhu remained composed, showcasing her accuracy and court coverage, ultimately finishing the match 21-14.

This victory propels the world No. 10 into the quarterfinals, where she will face Japan's former world champion Nozomi Okuhara, who advanced after the withdrawal of top seed An Se-young from South Korea.

With this win, Sindhu is now the last remaining Indian competitor in the tournament, following the exit of the mixed doubles team earlier in the day.

Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto put up a strong fight against China's top seeds Feng Yan Zhe and Huang Dong Ping but ultimately lost 20-22, 17-21 in the pre-quarterfinals after a 47-minute battle against one of the strongest mixed doubles pairs in the world.

With Lakshya Sen, Ayush Shetty, and Unnati Hooda having been eliminated in the first round, Sindhu's impressive win keeps India's hopes alive as the tournament progresses.