PV Sindhu’s run at the Malaysia Open Super 1000 has been one of the most encouraging stories for Indian badminton in recent times.
On Friday, the former world champion booked her place in the semifinals after reigning world champion Akane Yamaguchi was forced to retire due to injury, but not before Sindhu had stamped her authority on the contest with a dominant opening game.
Sindhu took the first game 21–11 against the World No. 3, setting the tone with controlled aggression, sharp court coverage, and a level of confidence that has been steadily building through the week. Shortly after the first game concluded, Yamaguchi informed the referee of her inability to continue due to injury concerns, bringing an abrupt end to what promised to be a high-quality quarterfinal clash. While the result was sealed by retirement, Sindhu’s superiority in the opening game left little doubt about the momentum she had generated.
The Indian star’s progression to the semifinals is significant on multiple counts. This is Sindhu’s first semifinal appearance at a Super 1000 event in nearly four and a half years, her previous such run coming at the 2021 Indonesia Open. It is also her first semifinal at the Malaysia Open since 2018, underlining how long she has waited for a deep run at one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments.
More importantly, the manner in which Sindhu has played throughout the week suggests a player rediscovering her best rhythm. Against Yamaguchi, she was proactive from the outset, dictating rallies with her length and timing and forcing the Japanese star into defensive positions far more often than usual. Sindhu’s movement looked sharper, her shot selection clearer, and her ability to control the tempo stood out traits that defined her peak years and have occasionally been elusive in recent seasons.
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While there will naturally be sympathy for Yamaguchi, whose injury cut short the contest, Sindhu’s performance deserves full recognition. Beating a top-three player, regardless of the final circumstances, requires authority and belief, and Sindhu showed both in abundance. Her ability to impose herself early ensured that she carried confidence rather than doubt into the latter stages of the match.
This semifinal berth also fits into a broader pattern that points to Sindhu’s resurgence on the big stage. At the 2025 World Championships, she defeated World No.2 Wang Zhiyi in a statement win. Now, at the Malaysia Open Super 1000, she has overcome World No. 3 Yamaguchi. Both results have come within a span of just three tournaments, a reminder that Sindhu remains one of the few players capable of raising her level against the very best when it matters most.
Awaiting her in the semifinals will be either China’s Wang Zhiyi or Indonesia’s Gregoria Mariska Tunjung, both formidable opponents with contrasting styles. Whoever she faces, Sindhu will take the court knowing she has already navigated one of the toughest challenges the draw could offer. The confidence gained from this week, the calm under pressure, the physical sharpness, and the clarity in her game plan could prove decisive as the tournament enters its final stretch.
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For Indian badminton fans, Sindhu’s run has been a timely reminder of her enduring class. She may no longer be the youngest player on the circuit, but her hunger for big titles and her ability to peak at elite events remain intact.
As she steps into the semifinals of a Super 1000 event for the first time in years, the signs are clear: PV Sindhu is very much back in business, and the belief around her game is growing with every match.
