PV Sindhu defeats Akechi to enter French Open final

India’s P V Sindhu produced a determined performance to defeat Japan’s Hina Akechi and secure a place in the women’s singles final of the French Open badminton tournament on Saturday. The two-time Olympic medallist won the semi-final 21-10, 20-22, 21-16 in a contest lasting one hour and 13 minutes.

The victory marks Sindhu’s second Super 750 final appearance this year, following her title-winning campaign at the Japan Open in July.

Sindhu battles back after second-game setback

The 31-year-old Indian showcased her experience and composure against world number 22 Akechi, who challenged her with deceptive strokes and solid defensive play.

Sindhu took control of the opening game after a closely fought start. Leading 11-9 at the interval, she stepped up her attack to win 11 of the final 12 points and seal the game 21-10.

Akechi responded strongly in the second game, forcing errors and keeping the contest tight. Sindhu fought back from a four-point deficit and saved a game point at 20-20, but the Japanese player secured the game 22-20 to force a decider.

Indian shuttler seals victory in deciding game

The final game saw Sindhu take an early lead before Akechi fought back to level the score at 15-15. A gruelling 38-shot rally ended with a net error from the Japanese player, giving Sindhu a crucial advantage.

The Indian maintained her composure in the closing stages, using accurate net play and a cross-court smash to seal the match 21-16.

Sindhu faces world number one in final

Sindhu will now take on South Korea’s world number one An Se Young in the summit clash. The Indian will aim to add another major title to her career after her Japan Open triumph earlier this year.

Her victory in Paris highlights her ability to withstand pressure in closely contested matches and keeps India’s hopes alive for another prestigious badminton title.