'A historic feat for Indian badminton': PM Modi congratulates PV Sindhu on Japan Open win
New Delhi, July 19
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu after she scripted history by becoming the first Indian to win the Japan Open, saying her triumph was 'a historic feat for Indian badminton' and would inspire generations of young athletes across the country.
Sindhu ended a two-year wait for a BWF World Tour title by defeating home favourite and four-time champion Akane Yamaguchi 21-17, 21-17 in the women's singles final of the Super 750 tournament at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium on Sunday.
Congratulating the former world champion, the Prime Minister praised her determination and consistency throughout the tournament.
"A historic feat for Indian badminton! Congratulations to PV Sindhu for emerging victorious in the Japan Open 2026. Her determination and exceptional skills were on full display throughout the tournament. The fact that she is the first Indian to win this title makes this achievement even more special. It will inspire countless young athletes across the country to play and shine," PM Modi wrote on X.
The title marked Sindhu's first BWF World Tour crown since lifting the Syed Modi International in December 2024 and ended her seven-year wait for a Super 750 or higher-level title.
The 31-year-old produced an impressive run to the title, defeating Tokyo Olympic champion Chen Yu Fei and world No. 5 Han Yue before overcoming Yamaguchi in straight games in the final.
After a closely contested opening game that was locked at 17-17, Sindhu won four consecutive points to take the opener. She carried the momentum into the second game, opening up a commanding lead before withstanding a late fightback from Yamaguchi to seal a memorable straight-games victory and create history as the first Indian champion at the prestigious tournament.
Speaking after the victory, Sindhu admitted the triumph carried immense personal significance after months of hard work and questions over her form.
"I had tears in my eyes because it was very important for me to win. I was working really hard on myself and kept believing that I can do it. Even though a lot of people were like, 'What's happening? Is it done?' or whatever, I believed in myself, and I would like to thank my family, coaches and the support staff, both sets of families, my parents and my in-laws, and of course my husband is always there even at my lowest. People around me have guided me really well; I'm really thankful," Sindhu told the media after the game.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Really happy for Sindhu! But let's also appreciate the depth in Indian badminton now - we have multiple players doing well internationally. Lakshya Sen, Satwik-Chirag, and now Sindhu's resurgence all bode well for the future. What we need is better grassroots coaching in smaller towns, not just celebrating individual wins. Just saying... 🤔
Great performance from Sindhu! The way she beat Chen Yu Fei and then Yamaguchi back-to-back shows her class is still world-class. Coming from someone who watches badminton regularly, this win is massive for Indian badminton. The PM's recognition is well-deserved. Hope she carries this form into the World Championships! 🏆
Finally! After two years of waiting, a BWF World Tour title is back. Sindhu's emotional words about the tears she held back really hit home - it shows how much pressure our athletes face, especially after Olympics. The support from her husband and family is beautiful to see. Sabko dikha diya ki 'Sindhu' naam ka matlab hai - shakti! 💪😊
One win doesn't erase questions about consistency. Sindhu is a legend no doubt, but she's been inconsistent in big matches for a while now. Yes, Japan Open is huge, but let's see if she can sustain this form for the next 6 months. Nonetheless, congratulations to her and the team - hard work does pay off eventually. Well played! 👏
What a comeback story! Sindhu beating the
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