PV Sindhu Loses To Chen Yufei, Exits China Open In Round Of 16
Sindhu exits after intense three-game battle against Chen Yufei.
Indian badminton star P V Sindhu suffered an early exit from the China Open after losing a hard-fought three-game battle against local favourite and world number four Chen Yufei in the second round. The match, played in Changzhou on Thursday, lasted nearly one and a half hours and saw both players compete in a physically demanding contest before Chen secured victory with a scoreline of 16-21, 22-20, 21-18.
Sindhu entered the tournament with renewed confidence after winning the Japan Open the previous week, ending a long wait for a major title. The 30-year-old Hyderabad player had hoped to continue her strong form in China, but was unable to convert crucial moments against the Olympic champion. Despite the defeat, her performance showed signs of improvement following a difficult period in her recent career.
The Indian shuttler made a strong start in the opening game despite falling behind 7-13. Sindhu fought back brilliantly to level the score at 16-16 before producing a five-point winning streak to take control of the game. Her aggressive play and ability to handle pressure gave her an early advantage against the highly ranked Chinese opponent.
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Chen Yufei responded strongly in the second game and turned the momentum in her favour. Sindhu appeared close to victory after taking a 20-16 lead and earning four game points, but Chen produced a remarkable comeback to win six straight points and claim the game 22-20. The turnaround shifted the pressure back onto Sindhu heading into the deciding game.
The final game remained closely contested for most of the duration, with neither player able to establish a clear lead. However, Chen managed to break away from a 17-17 tie by winning the key points at the closing stage. The 2021 Tokyo Olympics gold medallist maintained her composure to complete the victory and end Sindhu's China Open campaign.
Sindhu's early departure is a setback for India's challenge at the tournament, but her recent Japan Open triumph and competitive performance against one of the world's top players provide positive signs. The Indian badminton star will now look ahead to upcoming competitions as she continues her return to top-level form.
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