Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 12: Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu has returned to home soil with renewed confidence as she leads India’s challenge at the Indian Open Super 750, a tournament where she has previously tasted success. After a stop-start 2025 largely spent recovering from injuries, Sindhu says her 2026 season has begun on a far more positive note.
The 28-year-old shuttler started the year with a semi-final finish at the Malaysian Open, a result she believes signals a steady return to form. Speaking candidly ahead of the Indian Open, Sindhu reflected on her comeback journey, the patience required after injury, and the changing demands of women’s singles badminton.
“It was a really good run in Malaysia and a positive way to start the year. I hope to carry the same rhythm into the Indian Open,” Sindhu said. She added that while results are important, trusting the process is crucial. “You train hard every day, but sometimes results don’t immediately follow. There are matches where you play really well and still don’t win. What matters is believing in the process and coming back stronger every day.”
On whether her game has changed following injury, Sindhu said there has been no drastic technical shift, but a greater awareness of the sport’s evolution. “Women’s singles has changed a lot. Rallies are longer, defence is stronger, and matches are more physically demanding. You have to be patient and prepared. There are no easy matches anymore, whether your opponent is ranked one or fifteen,” she explained.
Addressing the perception that the Indian Open may carry less weight as it is sandwiched between two Super 1000 events, Sindhu dismissed the notion. “Every tournament and every match is important. Whether it’s a Super 1000 or a Super 750, when you step onto the court, you always want to give your best,” she said.
Sindhu also responded to questions about the relatively low number of Indian title wins at the Indian Open over the years. “Everyone wants to win on home soil. Sometimes it comes down to a point here or there. I wouldn’t call it underperformance. Players are giving their best, but sport doesn’t always go your way,” she noted.
On the absence of the Commonwealth Games, Sindhu said it was disappointing but stressed that focus has now shifted to bigger targets. “It’s unfortunate, but we are really looking forward to the World Championships and the Asian Games. Hosting the World Championships after 17 years is a huge moment for Indian athletes,” she said.
Talking about life after marriage, Sindhu said she has found a good balance between personal life and sport. “The support has been amazing. I’m very thankful to my family and my husband. I’ve been able to manage everything well,” she said, expressing hope for “many more medals” in the year ahead.
As the Indian Open unfolds, Sindhu’s words reflect a calm confidence — rooted in patience, experience and belief in the process — as India’s biggest badminton star looks to rediscover her best form on home courts.