PV Sindhu Exits China Open After Chen Defeat
PV Sindhu’s China Open campaign ended in the second round after she lost a closely contested three-game match against China’s world No. 4 Chen Yufei in Changzhou.
PV Sindhu Loses to Chen Yufei
Sindhu went down 21-16, 20-22, 18-21 after an intense women’s singles contest lasting one hour and 29 minutes. The Indian began strongly and recovered from an 8-13 deficit to win the opening game.
The two-time Olympic medallist carried that momentum into the second game and moved within one point of victory. However, Sindhu failed to convert four match points as Chen maintained her composure and claimed the game 22-20 to force a decider.
Chen then secured the crucial points late in the third game to complete her comeback and advance to the China Open quarterfinals.
Four Match Points Cost Sindhu
The second game proved decisive after Sindhu established an opportunity to finish the contest in straight games. Chen reduced her errors, extended the rallies and successfully defended each match point before taking control.
The deciding game remained closely fought, with neither player building a commanding advantage. Sindhu stayed aggressive and was level with Chen during the closing stages, but the Chinese player handled the final exchanges more effectively.
Japan Open Champion Exits Early
Sindhu entered the tournament after winning the Japan Open title, where she became the first Indian women’s singles player to lift the trophy. During that campaign, she defeated Chen in the semifinal after the Chinese player retired while trailing.
At the China Open, Sindhu reached the round of 16 by defeating fellow Indian Unnati Hooda 21-14, 9-21, 21-10. Despite the defeat, her performance against Chen continued her improved form ahead of the World Championships.
