India’s P. V. Sindhu and the men’s doubles duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty advanced to the quarterfinals of the China Masters badminton tournament on Thursday with commanding straight-game victories.
Sindhu outplays Chochuwong
Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medallist, needed just 41 minutes to defeat World No. 6 Pornpawee Chochuwong of Thailand 21-15, 21-15. The win not only marked her third triumph over a Top 10 opponent this year but also tilted her head-to-head record against Chochuwong to 6-5.
The 30-year-old Indian, currently ranked 14th, will now take on top seed An Se Young in the quarterfinals. The Korean has dominated their past encounters, winning all seven matches, six of them in straight games.
Satwik-Chirag ease past Taipei duo
In men’s doubles, Satwik and Chirag delivered another assured performance, brushing aside Chinese Taipei’s Wang Chi-lin and Chiu Hsiang-chieh 21-13, 21-12 in just 33 minutes. The Indian pair, seeded second, will next face local challengers Ren Xiang Yu and Xie Haonan for a place in the semifinals.
Sindhu reflects on victory
Speaking after her match, Sindhu said she was determined to stay sharp from the outset.
“I am happy with the win, and it was very important for me from the beginning to be alert and give my 100 per cent,” Sindhu said. “After winning the first game, I was much more focused in the second. Straight wins always give you confidence.”
She also noted that controlling shots in drift-heavy conditions was key. “Every tournament has its challenges with wind, but the important thing is to stay in control,” she added.
Working with new coach
Sindhu credited her ongoing partnership with Indian women’s singles coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama for her improved performances. “It’s very good working with him. We knew it would take time, but we figured out what changes were needed. He is giving his best efforts, and as an athlete it’s my duty too,” she said.
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