Sindhu Eyes Full Recovery Ahead of China Open Showdown

It’s been a whirlwind for India’s badminton star PV Sindhu. Just two days ago she lifted the Japan Open trophy, snapping a near‑two‑year title drought with a crisp 21‑17, 21‑17 victory over home favourite Akane Yamaguchi. The win felt like a sigh of relief after a season littered with niggles and rehab sessions.

But the celebration is tempered by practicality. With the China Open kicking off in just a few days, Sindhu told News18 she’s shifting her focus from the podium to the physiotherapy table. “Recovery is extremely important, especially with back‑to‑back matches,” she said, adding that she has a Wednesday match in hand after a Monday‑Tuesday travel window from Japan.

She explained that after a grueling three‑set battle, her body needs time to recalibrate. “Long matches take a toll. I want to be strong enough to stand on the court for the whole duration, not just the first few minutes,” Sindhu remarked, a hint of the usual composure she shows under pressure.

The Indian shuttler didn’t shy away from discussing the injuries that have haunted her lately. “It’s been a tough journey – a few niggles here, a bigger injury there. As an athlete, you expect that part of the package. The key is coming back stronger,” she reflected, acknowledging the mental and physical grind of rehab.

In the China Open draw, Sindhu opens against fellow Indian Unnati Hooda. A win there could set up a high‑stakes second‑round encounter with the top‑seeded South Korean, An Se‑Young. The prospect of a clash with the 2024 world champion has already sparked chatter among fans and pundits alike.

While the calendar leaves her just two days to recover, Sindhu remains optimistic. “I’m working on getting stronger each day. The focus right now is proper rest, physiotherapy, and staying sharp mentally,” she said, flashing the determined smile that has become her trademark.

All eyes will be on Shenzhen this week, where Sindhu hopes to turn her recent triumph into a deeper run, proving that a brief pause for recovery can be the springboard for another landmark achievement.