PV Sindhu defeats world champion Yamaguchi, becomes first Indian to win Japan Open. Anand Mahindra reacts: ‘Never ever give up…’

PV Sindhu created history by becoming the first Indian to conquer Japan Open. Taking to X, billionaire Anand Mahindra praised her profusely. He wrote: “PV Sindhu clinches the Japan Open! Winning this major title at the age of 31. Never, ever, give up on a true Champion…”

Sindhu produced a commanding performance to capture her first-ever Japan Open title on Sunday in Tokyo, defeating home favourite Akane Yamaguchi in straight games. The 31-year-old created history by becoming the first Indian shuttler to win the prestigious Super 750 tournament, securing a convincing 21-17, 21-17 victory through aggressive shot-making, tactical precision, and remarkable composure.

The triumph marks Sindhu's first championship since winning the Syed Modi International in 2024 and her most significant title since claiming the World Championships crown in 2019.


The opening game remained evenly contested until the score was locked at 11-11. Sindhu then shifted gears, winning crucial rallies to build a 16-12 cushion. At 17-15, the pair engaged in a gruelling 38-shot exchange, with Yamaguchi displaying exceptional defensive skills to stay in the rally. Sindhu responded with a blistering cross-court smash before her opponent committed an unforced error, taking the score to 19-17. Another mistake from the Japanese star handed the Indian three game points, allowing Sindhu to close out the opener.

Sindhu carried that momentum into the second game, establishing an early 11-7 lead at the mid-game break. She soon extended her advantage to 14-7, putting Yamaguchi under sustained pressure. Although the Japanese player attempted a comeback with a delicate net winner and capitalised on a few mistakes from Sindhu to reduce the deficit to 14-12, the Indian remained composed and continued to dictate the pace of the match.