Japan Open 2026: PV Sindhu Reaches First Final in Two Years After Defeating Chen Yufei

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu produced one of her finest performances in recent years to book a place in the Japan Open 2026 final, defeating long-time rival Chen Yufei of China in a thrilling semi-final on Saturday.

The victory marks Sindhu's first tour-level final in two years and her maiden appearance in the Japan Open final, ending a five-match losing streak against the Chinese shuttler.

Sindhu won the contest 21-19, 15-10, after Chen Yufei was forced to retire in the second game due to a hamstring injury.

Sindhu Ends Two-Year Wait for a Final

The last time PV Sindhu reached a final was in 2024, when she went on to win the Syed Modi International.

With her victory in Tokyo, the two-time Olympic medallist has now returned to a title clash after a long gap, underlining her resurgence on the international circuit.

She will now face either Akane Yamaguchi of Japan or Putri Kusuma Wardani of Indonesia in Sunday's championship match.

How the Semi-Final Unfolded

The opening game witnessed intense rallies and momentum swings.

Chen Yufei made a strong start, but Sindhu quickly recovered with a four-point run to establish control and entered the mid-game interval with a healthy lead.

After the break, the Chinese star fought back strongly, reducing the deficit and eventually levelling the score at 19-19.

At the crucial stage, Sindhu displayed remarkable composure, winning the final two points to claim the opening game 21-19.

One of the highlights of the match was an incredible 51-shot rally, which showcased the defensive skills and endurance of both players.

Dominant Second Game Before Injury Ends Contest

Sindhu carried her momentum into the second game, taking an early lead and maintaining control throughout.

She entered the interval with an 11-7 advantage, using precise cross-court drops and aggressive attacking play to keep Chen under pressure.

As the game progressed, Chen Yufei began struggling with a hamstring injury.

Unable to continue comfortably, the Chinese shuttler retired from the match with Sindhu leading 15-10, sending the Indian star into the final.

Confidence Growing for Sindhu

Sindhu has looked in excellent form throughout the Japan Open.

Earlier in the tournament, she registered an impressive victory over World No. 5 Han Yue, signalling a return to her best after a challenging period on the BWF Tour.

Her movement, attacking intent and consistency against top-ranked opponents have made this one of her strongest tournaments in recent years.

Eyes on the Title

With a place in the final secured, Sindhu now has the opportunity to win her first major BWF title in two years.

A victory on Sunday would further strengthen her comeback and provide a significant boost ahead of the upcoming international competitions.

Key Highlights

• PV Sindhu reached the Japan Open 2026 final for the first time in her career.
• She defeated China's Chen Yufei 21-19, 15-10 in the semi-final.
• Chen retired during the second game due to a hamstring injury.
• Sindhu ended a five-match losing streak against Chen Yufei.
• The Indian star reached her first tour-level final since winning the Syed Modi International 2024.
• She will face Akane Yamaguchi or Putri Kusuma Wardani in the final.

FAQs

Who did PV Sindhu defeat in the Japan Open 2026 semi-final?

PV Sindhu defeated China's Chen Yufei to reach the final of the Japan Open 2026.

What was the score of the match?

Sindhu won 21-19, 15-10, with Chen Yufei retiring during the second game because of a hamstring injury.

When was PV Sindhu's last tour-level final?

Her previous final appearance came in 2024, when she won the Syed Modi International.

Who could Sindhu face in the Japan Open final?

She will play either Akane Yamaguchi of Japan or Putri Kusuma Wardani of Indonesia.

Why is this victory significant?

The win ended Sindhu's two-year wait for a tour-level final and snapped her five-match losing streak against Chen Yufei.