Indian badminton star PV Sindhu kicked off her 2026 season on a winning note, overcoming a slow start to defeat Chinese Taipei's Sung Shuo Yun in the round of 32 at the prestigious Malaysia Open Super 1000 tournament in Kuala Lumpur. The match, which lasted 51 minutes on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, ended with a scoreline of 21-13, 22-20 in Sindhu's favour.
Shaking Off the Rust in Style
Returning to the court after a long injury layoff that forced her to end the 2025 season early, Sindhu showed initial signs of rust. She found herself trailing 1-7 in the opening game against a familiar foe. In a strange coincidence, this was the second consecutive year that Sindhu began her season against Sung Shuo Yun.
However, the two-time Olympic medallist quickly found her rhythm. She unleashed a powerful attacking game, complemented by solid defence when stretched by her opponent. A key moment was a 10-point streak that turned the first game on its head, showcasing the sheer power and tempo control that Sindhu is renowned for. A deceptive backhand drive sealed the first game, demonstrating her all-round skill.
A Tense Second Game and Nerve-Holding Finish
The second game was a much tighter affair. Sung Shuo Yun started strongly and displayed improved defensive stability, forcing Sindhu to work harder for every point. Despite building a 14-9 lead, Sindhu saw her advantage erased as Sung fought back to level at 15-15.
The match witnessed a pivotal, brutal rally where both players used clever crosscourt blocks. Sindhu eventually won it with a clever half-smash, celebrating with a fist pump. Drama ensued at the end when a potential match-winning shot from Sindhu was overturned by a successful review from Sung, making it 19-19. Showing composure, Sindhu held her nerve to convert her second match point and secure a straight-games victory.
A Positive Start to a Crucial Season
This victory marks a crucial and positive first step for PV Sindhu in the 2026 season. After an injury-disrupted previous year, her performance in Kuala Lumpur—blending attack, defence, and mental fortitude—ticks important boxes for a player looking to climb back to the pinnacle of the sport. The win sets up her next challenge in the Malaysia Open as she builds momentum for the busy season ahead.
