PV Sindhu Secures First Japan Open Title, Boosting Confidence Ahead of World Championships
Sindhu's Historic Victory at Japan Open
Tokyo, Japan - On July 20, PV Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medalist, celebrated a significant milestone by winning her first Japan Open title. She triumphed over local favorite and world No. 3, Akane Yamaguchi, with a score of 21-17, 21-17 in the women's singles final of the BWF Super 750 tournament. Sindhu described this victory as a substantial confidence booster, stating, "it's not over yet."
This win not only marked Sindhu's first Super 750 title but also ended a title drought that lasted over two years. Additionally, she became the first Indian player to claim the prestigious Japan Open title, representing her most significant achievement since winning the BWF World Championships in 2019.
In a media interaction organized by the Badminton Association of India (BAI) following her victory, Sindhu expressed that the long-awaited Japan Open title was crucial for her confidence. She emphasized her unwavering belief in herself despite external doubts, stating that this triumph reinforced her conviction that she can achieve even greater success, asserting, "it's not over yet."
Sindhu highlighted the importance of this victory, especially with the 2026 BWF World Championships approaching, scheduled from August 17 to August 23. She remarked, "This win is a confidence booster, and I am very happy to have achieved it right before the upcoming Worlds."
Facing a three-time world champion in front of a supportive Tokyo crowd, Sindhu showcased a commanding performance, skillfully combining aggressive smashes with strategic net play to control the match from the outset.
She started strong, quickly establishing a 3-0 lead, but Yamaguchi fought back to equalize. The first game was tightly contested, with both players exchanging momentum, and Yamaguchi taking a slight lead at the mid-game interval.
However, Sindhu regained control after the break, highlighted by a lengthy 36-shot rally that helped her level the score. She then took charge with precise net play and powerful cross-court shots.
Sindhu built a four-point lead at 16-12, and despite Yamaguchi's attempts to close the gap, the Indian maintained her composure in the final moments. She secured three game points with consecutive attacking shots, ultimately winning the first game with a well-placed shot into Yamaguchi's backhand corner.
In the second game, Sindhu continued her dominance, controlling the forecourt and forcing Yamaguchi into defensive positions, which she capitalized on with her signature steep smashes.
A demanding 44-shot rally showcased Sindhu's physical prowess as she surged to an 8-3 lead, extending it to 11-7 at the interval. Although Yamaguchi made a final push, reducing the deficit to 14-12 and later 19-17, Sindhu remained unfazed. Two powerful smashes regained her control, leading to three championship points. The match concluded when Yamaguchi's return went long, confirmed by a successful video review.
This victory held special significance for Sindhu, as she had not defeated Yamaguchi in a completed match for four years. Competing against an opponent in her sixth Japan Open final, Sindhu delivered one of her best performances in recent seasons, demonstrating the skill and composure that have established her as one of the world's top shuttlers.