PV Sindhu Clinches Historic Japan Open Title, Ends Two-Year Trophy Drought

Mangalore Today News Network

Tokyo, July 19, 2026: India’s two-time Olympic medallist P.V. Sindhu produced a commanding performance to defeat Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi 21-17, 21-17 in the final of the Japan Open Super 750 on Sunday, clinching her maiden title at the prestigious tournament.

With the victory at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, Sindhu became the first Indian to win the Japan Open and also secured her first Super 750 title.

The triumph marks Sindhu’s return to the top after a prolonged title drought and a challenging period marked by injuries. Her previous title came at the Syed Modi International in 2024, while this is her biggest title since winning the BWF World Championships in 2019.

Sindhu dominated the opening game with a mix of powerful smashes, sharp cross-court drops and disciplined defence, edging past world No. 3 Yamaguchi 21-17. She carried the momentum into the second game, maintaining relentless pressure and forcing the home favourite into several unforced errors.

Despite a late fightback from Yamaguchi, backed by a vocal home crowd, Sindhu held her composure and sealed the second game 21-17 to complete a memorable straight-games victory.

The title is expected to boost Sindhu’s confidence ahead of the remainder of the international season and signals a strong return to form for one of India’s most decorated badminton players.