PV Sindhu ended a seven-year wait for a major Super 750 title by winning the Japan Open 2026 at Tokyo's Metropolitan Gymnasium on Sunday. According to RevSportz, the 31-year-old Indian badminton star defeated Japan's Akane Yamaguchi, a three-time world champion and local favorite, in straight sets 21-17, 21-17 in just 50 minutes to claim the prestigious crown.
This victory marks Sindhu’s first international title since the Syed Modi International in December 2024 and her first overseas Super 500 level or above title since 2022. It also represents her biggest individual achievement since winning the World Championship in 2019. Sindhu made history as the first Indian to secure a BWF individual title at the Super 500 level or higher in 2026, while also becoming the oldest Super 750 champion at 31, surpassing Tai Tzu Ying.
The match began with Sindhu quickly establishing a 3-0 lead, but Yamaguchi responded with a series of deceptive shots to lead 11-10 at the mid-game break. After the interval, Sindhu attacked fiercely with sharp cross-court smashes, pulling ahead to 16-12. Despite a prolonged 38-shot rally that narrowed the gap to 16-17, Sindhu maintained composure to close out the first game with precise interceptions and down-the-line smashes.
In the second game, Sindhu continued her aggressive play, forcing Yamaguchi into errors and building a strong 8-3 lead. Although the Japanese player tried to rally back, Sindhu kept control, leading 11-7 at the break and extending her advantage to 14-7. Yamaguchi mounted a late comeback to bring it to 17-15, but Sindhu held her nerve, winning the final points and sealing the match when Yamaguchi’s return went wide.
This win also marked Sindhu’s first on-court victory over Yamaguchi in four years, extending their head-to-head record to 16-14 in Sindhu’s favor. Starting the year ranked 18th and entering the Tokyo Open as world number 10, Sindhu is poised to rise to world number 8 following this triumph.
Why this matters
Sindhu’s breakthrough at the Japan Open highlights a significant comeback after years of battling injuries and near misses. Her win not only breaks the so-called 'Tokyo curse' but also reaffirms her status among the elite in global badminton. This milestone could provide momentum for future international competitions, boosting her confidence and rankings.
As one of India's most accomplished badminton players, Sindhu's success continues to inspire upcoming athletes and brings greater attention to Indian badminton on the world stage.
