Fresh, fit, focused: PV Sindhu aims for a big 2026 comeback.
After a four-month break due to a foot injury, PV Sindhu is back in action, kicking off her 2026 season at the Malaysia Open, a Super 1000 event in Bukit Jalil starting January 6. The pause in 2025 came at an inopportune time, just as Sindhu was hitting form, including a gritty World Championship quarter-final run where she upset World No. 2 Wang Zhi Yi.
Last year was challenging. The two-time Olympic medallist ended with an unusual 11-15 win-loss record, and injuries combined with fluctuating form saw her drop out of the world’s top 10. At 30, Sindhu remains undeterred, her eyes set on an unprecedented third Olympic medal at Los Angeles 2028.
Rekindling the fire
Despite her decorated career—two Olympic medals and five World Championship medals—Sindhu is hungry for more. Since her Syed Modi International win in 2024, a BWF title has eluded her. The 2026 calendar is crucial, featuring the All England Open, Asian Games, and a World Championship on home soil after 16 years.
Under coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama at the Centre for Badminton Excellence (CBE), Sindhu has trained intensely against high-level junior male shuttlers. Former India international Vimal Kumar notes that her physical freshness is a major asset, though match practice remains limited.
A favourable start in Malaysia
Sindhu opens against World No. 31 Sung Shuo Yun. A win likely sets up a clash with eighth seed Tomoka Miyazaki, while world champion Akane Yamaguchi lies in her quarter. She avoids World No. 1 An Se Young, against whom she is 0-8.
“A strong start is vital,” says Vimal. “She hasn’t played in months. The draw lets her ease into competition, build confidence, and adjust to match conditions.”
Mental edge and tactical clarity
Sindhu’s main challenge remains decisiveness in key moments. Vimal explains, “She needs to convert chances better, attack when required, and find rhythm. In practice, she looks sharp. Translating that to matches will be key.”
Age is no barrier
At 30, Sindhu is one of the seniors in the women’s circuit. With only Ratchanok Intanon (30) and Akane Yamaguchi (28) in the top 20 among her peers, Vimal sees a window of opportunity. “Experience is on Sindhu’s side. The younger players aren’t as consistent. She has a real chance to make a comeback.”
Eyes on the missing crown
Sindhu’s 2026 strategy is selective. A major focus is the All England Open, an event she hasn’t won despite a stellar career. “Targeting tournaments where she hasn’t performed well will help her complete her legacy,” says Vimal.
A strong showing in Malaysia and the India Open in New Delhi could reignite Sindhu’s momentum. For India’s queen of badminton, the climb back to the top starts now.
Comments are closed.