PV Sindhu Creates History, Becomes First Indian To Win Japan Open Title

Tokyo: After a tough battle of one and a half hour, the last shot was out and PV Sindhu waved both her hands in the air. This was not just a match. This was the moment for which Indian badminton was waiting for years. Sindhu won the women's singles final of Japan Open Super-750. In front was world number one Akane Yamaguchi. The score was 21-17, 21-17. With this Sindhu became the first Indian to win the Japan Open. 

Was Sindhu's strategy clear from the beginning?

It was clear from the initial scores of the match that Sindhu was in no mood to take any risks this time. She did not allow Yamaguchi to play freely in her favorite high-speed rallies. Sometimes with cross court smashes and sometimes with drop shots falling just above the net, the Indian player spoiled the rhythm of the Japanese star by constantly changing shots. The score was tied several times in the first game, but Sindhu did not make a single easy mistake on the deciding points. This difference was ultimately reflected in the score of 21-17.

Why couldn't Yamaguchi return in the second game?

Despite continued support from the home crowd, Yamaguchi was unable to return to the form she is known for. Sindhu took the lead from the beginning in the second game and put complete pressure on her opponent. Points were going to the Indian player's account after every long rally. Yamaguchi did hit some aggressive shots, but Sindhu's court coverage and returns were so accurate that the Japanese player remained on the defensive. In the end, another score of 21-17 decided the match and the Tokyo stadium became witness to the historic victory of the Indian player.

Can this title prove to be the turning point of Sindhu's career?

Sindhu's performance in the last two-three years has been a constant topic of discussion. Due to injuries she had to miss many tournaments, while in some big events she could not progress as expected. In such a period, many former players also raised questions on her form. However, the way she played throughout the tournament at the Japan Open clearly indicated that her rhythm has returned. The special thing was that she performed brilliantly even against those players against whom she had to face difficulties in recent years.

How big of an achievement is a win over Yamaguchi after four years?

PV Sindhu had been continuously struggling against her and could not win in many of their previous encounters. In such a situation, defeating Yamaguchi in straight games on Japanese soil, playing in front of home crowd, further increases the importance of this victory. This is why experts are considering it not just a title but also a return of Sindhu's confidence.

What message did Indian badminton get from this victory?

After Olympics, World Championship, now Japan Open also. Sindhu filled another gap. There are World Championships and other big tournaments ahead. This victory will boost the morale of the entire team. Most importantly, Sindhu again showed that even today she knows how to convert pressure into opportunity on the big stage. This night in Tokyo is not just a record. This is the beginning of new hope for Indian badminton.