Unnati Hooda Shines in Upset Victory Over PV Sindhu at China Open 2025

Unnati Hooda's Remarkable Upset

Changzhou [China], July 24: In an electrifying all-Indian showdown, 17-year-old Unnati Hooda showcased her talent by defeating two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu, securing her spot in the Women’s Singles quarterfinals at the China Open 2025, as reported by a badminton association release.

The match highlighted the contrast between India's badminton legacy and its promising future, with Hooda facing off against the experienced Sindhu. Hooda began with a strong performance, winning the first game 21-16. However, Sindhu responded fiercely, taking the second game 21-19 in a nail-biting finish. In the final game, Hooda's skill shone through as she clinched the match 21-13, moving on to the quarterfinals.

Next, Hooda will compete against Japan's Akane Yamaguchi, the World No. 4 and third seed, in the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, in Men's Doubles, the duo of Satwik and Chirag is set to face Malaysia's Ong Yew Sin and Teo Ee Yi in their quarterfinal match.

After her victory over Sindhu, Hooda expressed her thoughts: “Facing PV Sindhu is always a tough challenge, and today was no different. The rallies were intense, but I kept my focus and composure. I’m thrilled with my performance and eager for the next match.”

Earlier in the tournament, Hooda had a dominant win against Scottish player Kirsty Gilmour, finishing the match 21-11, 21-16 in just 36 minutes.

India's leading men's doubles team, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, also continued their successful run at the China Open 2025, a BWF Super 1000 event, by reaching the quarterfinals on Thursday.

The World No. 12 pair displayed their prowess, narrowly defeating Indonesia's Leo Rolly Carnando and Bagas Maulana with a score of 21-19, 21-19, reinforcing their title ambitions.

In men's singles, HS Prannoy faced World No. 6 Chou Tien Chen from Chinese Taipei but ended his campaign after a challenging match.