India’s ace shuttler P V Sindhu bowed out of the Malaysia Open Super 1000 after a straight-game defeat to world number two Wang Zhiyi in the semifinals. Returning to competitive action after recovering from a foot injury that had kept her out since October last year, the two-time Olympic medallist struggled to maintain consistency against
-1768032028907_d.png "Sindhu exits Malaysia Open after semifinal loss to Wang")
P V Sindhu. (Pic/AFP)
Ace Indian shuttler P V Sindhu’s promising run at the season-opening Malaysia Open Super 1000 came to an end after she suffered a straight-game defeat to China’s world number two Wang Zhiyi in the women’s singles semifinals here on Saturday.
Returning to competitive action after recovering from a foot injury that had kept her out since October last year, the two-time Olympic medallist struggled to maintain consistency against the higher-ranked Chinese opponent and went down 16-21, 15-21, bringing curtains down on India’s campaign in the tournament.
Sindhu, however, showed glimpses of her fighting spirit, especially in the second game where she squandered an 11-6 lead after the mid-game interval. Reflecting on the match, the 30-year-old admitted that small lapses at crucial moments proved costly.
“I think at 11-6, after the break, I should have taken two or three points. Even when you’re leading, you can’t expect it to be easy. These things happen in a match,” Sindhu said.
The Indian shuttler started the opening game aggressively, using her height and reach to good effect and unleashing trademark cross-court smashes to take an early 5-2 lead.
Wang, however, relied on her deft net play and defensive solidity to claw her way back. After both players were locked at 13-13, Wang stepped up the pressure with a series of attacking shots and well-placed lifts, racing to an 18-14 lead before closing out the game.
In the second game, Sindhu regrouped after falling behind early and controlled the rallies to build a comfortable 11-6 lead at the interval.
Wang once again mounted a strong comeback as Sindhu committed a series of unforced errors, allowing the Chinese shuttler to draw level at 13-13 and then seize control.
Wang earned five match points and sealed the contest when Sindhu pushed a shot wide.
Despite the loss, Sindhu described the tournament as a positive start to her season.
“It was a good tournament for me. Coming back after an injury, this performance gives me confidence and motivation. Now it’s important to rest and get ready for the India Open,” she said.
Sindhu will next compete at the India Open Super 750 tournament in New Delhi next week.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
