Tokyo: India’s champion shuttler PV Sindhu made history on July 19, 2026, by becoming the first Indian badminton player to win the Japan Open Super 750 title. She defeated Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi in straight games, 21-17, 21-17, in the final held in Tokyo, successfully securing her biggest BWF title since 2019.
The memorable straight-games victory not only broke Sindhu’s title drought but also cemented her legacy as the only Indian shuttler to claim this prestigious tournament. Sindhu showcased an attacking game and solid defense to overcome the home favorite, controlling both games during crucial late-rally moments to clinch the championship.
The win extended Sindhu’s head-to-head advantage over three-time world champion Yamaguchi, lifting it to 16-14. Sindhu’s last full-match victory over her came at the Thailand Open in 2022.
On Sunday, however, the Indian dictated terms from the outset. She controlled the forecourt superbly, attacked with purpose rather than sheer power and repeatedly found answers whenever Yamaguchi threatened a comeback.
