PV Sindhu ends five-year Super 750 drought with Japan Open triumph
PV Sindhu silenced her critics on Sunday by winning the Japan Open, her first Super 750 title since her World Championship victory in 2019. The 31-year-old defeated home favourite and world No. 3 Akane Yamaguchi 21-17, 21-17 in the final, breaking a run of near-misses in major tournaments.
After the match, an emotional Sindhu fell to the court, tears streaming behind her hands. “I had tears in my eyes because it was important for me to win,” she said. “Lot of people were like, what’s happening? Is it done? But I kept believing in myself.”
The victory was particularly significant given the doubts surrounding Sindhu’s form. She had not beaten Yamaguchi in a completed match since May 2022, and her last title was a Super 300 event 19 months ago. This Japan Open was only her third Super 750 or higher title, underscoring her reputation as a big-tournament performer.
Sindhu credited her team, including Indonesian coach Irwansyah and fitness trainer Wayne Lombard, for reviving her attacking game. Irwansyah helped her sharpen transitions and use the net more effectively, while Lombard designed strength programmes from his hospital bed after surgery.
Her husband, Venkata Datta Sai, was also praised for rebuilding her support staff. “My parents, in-laws, and most importantly my husband were always there through my lows,” Sindhu said.
Yamaguchi, who had the support of a roaring home crowd, was distraught after the loss. “I am so upset. She was very aggressive, the smash so strong,” the Japanese star said.
The win comes as several of Sindhu’s contemporaries—Carolina Marin, He Bingjiao, and Tai Tzu-ying—have retired due to injuries. Sindhu, however, remains focused on a third Olympic medal, while also learning to stay calm under pressure. “Playing in the final is one thing, but to win that gold is a different thing,” she said.
