Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 19: Indian badminton star PV Sindhu received widespread praise from political leaders, sporting icons and fans after scripting history by becoming the first Indian to win the Japan Open, ending a two-year wait for a BWF World Tour title.
Sindhu produced a commanding display to defeat four-time champion Akane Yamaguchi 21-17, 21-17 in the women's singles final at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. The victory marked her maiden Japan Open crown and her first Super 750 title in seven years.
The triumph is Sindhu's biggest title since winning the BWF World Tour Finals in 2018 and the China Open in 2016. It is also her first BWF World Tour title since lifting the Syed Modi International trophy in December 2024, providing a timely boost ahead of next month's BWF World Championships in New Delhi.
Former India chief coach Vimal Kumar hailed the achievement, describing it as a fitting reward for Sindhu's perseverance and determination. He said the title would significantly boost her confidence before the World Championships and noted that her return to the world's top eight should earn her a valuable seeding at the prestigious event.
Vimal also credited Sindhu's improved tactical approach, patience and reduction in unforced errors, while applauding her coaching and support staff for their continued faith and hard work.
The Badminton Association of India (BAI) celebrated the milestone, calling Sindhu's victory a historic achievement and praising her dominant run throughout the tournament. The federation described her as a trailblazer who had once again rewritten Indian badminton history.
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan congratulated Sindhu on her remarkable success, highlighting her victory over hometown favourite Yamaguchi as a display of courage, resilience and championship spirit. He said her achievement would inspire young athletes across the country and expressed confidence that many more international titles would follow.
Former India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan also lauded Sindhu, calling her performance an example of how champions rise on the biggest occasions. He said her historic victory was another proud moment for Indian sport and praised her resilience and consistency.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju joined the chorus of congratulations, applauding Sindhu for once again bringing glory to the country with her memorable triumph in Japan.
Sindhu's landmark victory not only ended her prolonged wait for a major World Tour title but also reinforced her status as one of India's greatest badminton players as she heads into the World Championships with renewed confidence and momentum.