PV Sindhu has made history by becoming the first Indian to win the Japan Open title. The 31-year-old badminton star secured the victory on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, defeating Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi in straight games, 21-17, 21-17. The final match lasted 50 minutes.
This triumph marks Sindhu’s maiden BWF Super 750 title and serves as her most significant international victory since winning the World Championships in 2019. The win also effectively ended a 595-day title drought, as her previous tournament victory occurred on December 1, 2024, at the Syed Modi International.
A Dominant Performance in Tokyo
Sindhu’s path to the championship was characterized by an aggressive style of play that drew praise from opponents and observers alike. Throughout the tournament, she utilized explosive attacking strokes and a seamless transition from defense to offense.
In the final, Sindhu faced the four-time Japan Open champion, Yamaguchi. Upon the final point, which was confirmed following a successful challenge by Yamaguchi, an emotional Sindhu celebrated by bowing to the court and embracing her coach, Irwansyah Adi Pratama.
The road to the final included a semifinal match where China’s Chen Yu Fei retired hurt in the second game while Sindhu led 21-19, 15-10. Additionally, Sindhu received a walkover in the tournament after former world champion Nozomi Okuhara withdrew due to injury. In the second round, Sindhu defeated China’s Han Yue 21-16, 21-14 in 35 minutes.
Overcoming Challenges and Doubts
Reflecting on her victory, Sindhu acknowledged the mental and physical challenges she has faced over the past 19 months. Addressing the skepticism surrounding her career trajectory, she noted, Even though a lot of people were asking, ‘What’s happening? Is she done?’ I still believed in myself.
She credited her success to her own hard work, her family, and her coaching team. This victory in Tokyo has bolstered her confidence as she prepares for the BWF World Championships, scheduled to be held in Delhi next month.
National Recognition and Future Outlook
The historic achievement triggered widespread celebration across India. Public figures and sporting legends took to social media to commend her resilience.
* Vimal Kumar, former national chief coach, highlighted that the victory earned Sindhu a place in the world’s Top 8, which is expected to provide a crucial seeding advantage for the upcoming World Championships.
* Pawan Kalyan, Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, praised her fearless performance
on foreign soil.
* Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister, and former cricketer Shikhar Dhawan also extended their public congratulations, citing her inspiration to young athletes.
Following the match, Sindhu engaged in a lighthearted social media exchange with director SS Rajamouli, who congratulated her on the win. Sindhu jokingly appealed to the filmmaker to consider casting her as a badminton player in one of his future projects.
Career Milestone Summary
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Japan Open 2026 |
| Category | BWF Super 750 |
| Final Score | 21-17, 21-17 vs. Akane Yamaguchi |
| Historical Status | First Indian to win the Japan Open |
| Last Major Title | 2019 World Championships |
As Sindhu looks ahead, her performance in Japan is viewed as a significant return to form. With the BWF World Championships on the horizon, she aims to maintain her momentum and continue her pursuit of success on the international stage.
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