PV Sindhu began her 2026 season with a resilient victory at the Malaysia Open, while the mixed doubles pair of Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto faced an early exit.
Two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu advanced to the Round of 16 at the BWF Super 1000 Malaysia Open, demonstrating both physical and mental strength in her opening match. Sindhu, currently ranked 18th in the world, secured a hard-fought straight-games win against Chinese Taipei's Sung Shuo Yun, with scores of 21-13, 22-20. This marked Sindhu's return to competitive action since last September, following an injury-hampered 2025 season.
The opening game saw Sindhu initially trailing, but she quickly found her rhythm to dominate and win 21-13. The second game was more tightly contested, testing Sindhu's resolve. Despite the pressure, she managed to secure the win 22-20, demonstrating her ability to elevate her game during crucial moments. This victory is especially significant as it provides an encouraging start to her 2026 campaign. Sindhu's ability to increase intensity mid-match and close out a nervous second game is a positive sign. Following this win, her live ranking moved up to No. 15.
India's challenge in Kuala Lumpur also includes Malvika Bansod and Unnati Hooda in women's singles, and Lakshya Sen and Ayush Shetty in men's singles. In men's doubles, Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, the third seeds, are leading India's hopes. Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand are spearheading the women's doubles challenge after their recent title defense at the Syed Modi International tournament.
In mixed doubles, Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto, ranked world no. 17, were defeated by United States’ Presley Smith and Jennie Gai. Kapila and Crasto lost 15-21, 21-18, 15-21.
The Malaysia Open is the first tournament of the BWF World Tour calendar, serving as a platform for players to test their preparations and identify areas for improvement. The event is being held at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur from January 6 to 11, with a total prize of US$1,450,000.
