P.V. Sindhu, the celebrated Indian badminton star, is currently navigating a crucial phase in her career, marked by adaptation and strategic adjustments to her game. With the evolving dynamics of women's singles badminton demanding more endurance and tactical variation, Sindhu is consciously reinventing herself to remain competitive at the highest level.
The modern game has shifted significantly from the aggressive, fast-paced rallies of the past to a more defensive style characterized by long rallies, strategic clears, and deceptive drops. This transformation requires players to possess exceptional stamina, patience, and the ability to maintain consistency over extended periods. Sindhu, acknowledging this shift, is focusing on enhancing her endurance and refining her defensive skills under the guidance of her coach, Irwansyah Adi Pratama.
Sindhu's recent performances reflect her ongoing transition. While she has faced early exits in several tournaments this year, she secured a quarter-final appearance at the India Open, signaling her potential. At the Singapore Open 2025, Sindhu snapped a series of opening-round losses, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. However, consistency remains a key area of focus, as highlighted by her second-round loss to Chen Yufei, despite showing glimpses of her old form.
At 29, Sindhu is also becoming increasingly mindful of her body's needs. She recognizes that her training regimen needs to evolve to suit her age and physical condition. Rather than relentlessly pursuing quantity in tournaments, she is adopting a more selective approach, prioritizing quality performances to avoid injuries and optimize her competitiveness. This involves understanding that things might change and adapting accordingly.
Sindhu's training incorporates a blend of on-court drills, endurance exercises, and strategic refinement. Her daily routine includes morning sessions dedicated to honing her badminton skills, followed by afternoon sessions focused on endurance training. She also emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet comprising proteins, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients to fuel her rigorous training schedule. Yoga and swimming contribute to her overall fitness, enhancing her balance and flexibility.
Sindhu acknowledges the need to constantly evolve and adapt, stating, "As an athlete, I have been changing my game; it might take time, but it's important to do it every time." She is working on being more patient during rallies, maintaining the shuttle in play for longer durations, and improving her defensive capabilities. She recognizes that while she was known for her attacking style, modern badminton requires athletes to be proficient in defense as well.
Despite the challenges and the need for adaptation, Sindhu remains optimistic and determined. She recognizes the importance of staying injury-free and keeping pace with younger players. Her experience and achievements, including multiple Olympic medals and World Championship titles, provide her with a strong foundation to build upon. She believes she has much more to achieve and is committed to putting in the hard work required to reach her goals.
