How Virat Kohli's Advice Helped PV Sindhu End Her Title Drought With Japan Open Triumph

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu has credited a heartfelt conversation with Virat Kohli for helping her rediscover her love for the sport, a turning point that ultimately led to her historic triumph at the Japan Open 2026.

After enduring injuries, disappointing results, and a prolonged title drought, Sindhu found herself questioning her path. It was during one of the most difficult phases of her career that she reached out to the former India cricket captain for guidance.

The conversation, she says, transformed her perspective—not by focusing on trophies, but by helping her reconnect with the joy of competing.

A Difficult Phase in Sindhu's Career

The last two years tested PV Sindhu both physically and mentally.

Following a stress fracture and an early exit at the Paris Olympics, the two-time Olympic medallist struggled with recurring injuries and inconsistent performances. Rehabilitation setbacks and the absence of major titles only added to the pressure.

Despite years of success on the international stage, Sindhu admitted that she had reached one of the lowest points of her sporting journey.

The Phone Call That Changed Everything

Looking for advice from someone who understood the demands of elite sport, Sindhu contacted Virat Kohli.

According to Sindhu, Kohli responded within minutes, and the two met the very next day in Bengaluru.

She later shared that the discussion remains private but described it as one of the most meaningful conversations of her career.

Accompanied by her husband Venkata Datta Sai, Sindhu reflected on the challenges she had been facing and the mindset required to move forward.

Virat Kohli's Simple Yet Powerful Advice

Sindhu revealed that Kohli's message was surprisingly straightforward.

Rather than encouraging her to focus on winning titles, he advised her to rediscover the joy of playing badminton.

That perspective changed everything.

Instead of training solely to lift trophies, Sindhu began focusing on enjoying the process—early morning practice sessions, gradual improvement, and becoming a better athlete every day.

She later admitted that this shift in mindset helped her regain confidence and purpose.

Japan Open Triumph Ends Long Wait

The renewed approach paid off in spectacular fashion.

At the Japan Open 2026, Sindhu defeated home favourite Akane Yamaguchi in straight games to lift her maiden BWF Super 750 title.

The victory was historic for several reasons:

• First Indian to win the Japan Open.
• First Super 750 title of her career.
• Ended a major title drought of more than two years.
• Became the oldest woman to win a Super 750 title.

The win also reaffirmed Sindhu's place among the world's elite badminton players.

Rebuilding Beyond Mindset

Sindhu's comeback was not only mental but also physical and tactical.

Working alongside:

• Husband Venkata Datta Sai
• Strength and conditioning coach Wayne Lombard
• Indonesian coach Irwansyah

she transformed multiple aspects of her game.

Her team focused on:

• Improving movement and endurance.
• Enhancing net play and shot variation.
• Using sports data to monitor workload and recovery.
• Reducing injury risk through better training management.

The combination helped Sindhu compete more effectively in long rallies while expanding her attacking options beyond powerful smashes.

A New Approach to Competition

Sindhu explained that she adopted a philosophy of taking one day at a time during her recovery.

Rather than rushing back before regaining full fitness, she prioritised long-term performance over immediate results.

She also acknowledged that injuries naturally bring self-doubt but said believing in herself remained the key to overcoming difficult moments.

The Japan Open title has now restored her confidence ahead of a packed international calendar, including the World Championships and the Asian Games.

Confidence Restored

While the trophy marked the end of a long wait, Sindhu believes the biggest victory came much earlier—when she rediscovered why she loves badminton.

With renewed belief, improved fitness, and a refreshed mindset, the Indian star now looks ready to compete once again at the highest level.

Key Highlights

• PV Sindhu revealed that a conversation with Virat Kohli helped change her mindset.
• Kohli advised her to rediscover the joy of playing instead of chasing trophies.
• Sindhu won the Japan Open 2026, ending a title drought of more than two years.
• She defeated Japan's Akane Yamaguchi in the final.
• Sindhu became the first Indian to win the Japan Open and the oldest woman to claim a BWF Super 750 title.
• Her comeback included physical conditioning, tactical improvements, and data-driven training.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did PV Sindhu contact Virat Kohli?

Sindhu reached out to Virat Kohli during one of the toughest periods of her career while struggling with injuries, poor results, and a lack of confidence.

What advice did Virat Kohli give PV Sindhu?

Kohli encouraged Sindhu to stop focusing only on winning trophies and instead rediscover the joy of playing badminton.

Which title did PV Sindhu win after her comeback?

Sindhu won the Japan Open 2026, defeating Akane Yamaguchi in the final to claim her first BWF Super 750 title.

Why is the Japan Open victory historic?

The triumph made Sindhu the first Indian to win the Japan Open and the oldest woman to lift a Super 750 title.

Who helped PV Sindhu during her comeback?

Sindhu credited her husband Venkata Datta Sai, coach Irwansyah, strength trainer Wayne Lombard, and Virat Kohli for supporting different aspects of her comeback journey.

What tournaments will PV Sindhu play next?

Sindhu is expected to compete in the upcoming World Championships and the Asian Games following her Japan Open success.