Daijiworld Media Network - Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Jan 9: Indian shuttler PV Sindhu advanced to the semifinals of the Malaysia Open 2026 in dramatic fashion on Friday, while men’s doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty suffered a rare early exit from the tournament.

Sindhu needed just 11 minutes on court to seal her place in the last four after winning the opening game 21-11 against Japan’s third seed Akane Yamaguchi, who was forced to retire due to injury. The Indian ace looked in commanding form before Yamaguchi’s withdrawal brought the contest to an abrupt end.

In contrast, India endured disappointment in the men’s doubles category as top pair Satwik and Chirag went down in straight games to Indonesia’s Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Rian Ardianto. The loss marked an unusual early exit for the Indian duo, who have been among the most consistent performers on the international circuit in recent seasons.

With Sindhu carrying India’s hopes forward in the tournament, attention will now turn to her semifinal clash as she continues her strong run at the prestigious season-opening event.