PV Sindhu advances to Denmark Open quarterfinals after thrilling comeback against Han Yue

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Indian badminton star and two-time Olympic medallist, PV Sindhu, made a remarkable comeback against China’s Han Yue to secure her place in the quarterfinals of the Denmark Open on Thursday. The ongoing tournament, taking place in Odense, witnessed Sindhu’s resilience as she triumphed in three sets after losing the opener.

Ranked 18th in the world, Sindhu faced a formidable challenge against Han, who holds the 7th spot in global rankings. In a match that lasted just over an hour, the Indian shuttler emerged victorious with a 18-21, 21-12, 21-16 win.

The match began with Han taking an early lead. After both players were tied at 4-4 in the first game, Han managed to string together five consecutive points, putting pressure on Sindhu. Although Sindhu fought hard towards the end of the set and saved four game points, Han managed to secure the first game, 21-18.

In the second game, however, Sindhu showed her trademark resilience. From the very start, she took control of the match, applying relentless pressure on her Chinese opponent. Her aggressive style and tactical play allowed her to clinch the second set with ease, leveling the match and setting up a decisive third game.

The final set was a nail-biting affair, with both players pushing each other to the limits. Han, who has enjoyed a successful season with titles at the Hong Kong and Arctic Opens, appeared in control at the mid-game interval, leading by four points. But Sindhu, known for her comebacks, dug deep and turned the match around. She rattled off four consecutive points, bringing the scoreline level. Even when Han regained the lead at 16-15, Sindhu displayed immense mental fortitude, winning the next six points to close out the match in her favor.

This victory improved Sindhu’s head-to-head record against Han to 7-1, reaffirming her dominance over the Chinese player.

Looking ahead, Sindhu’s next challenge in the quarterfinals will be either the world number 8 Gregoria Mariska Tunjung from Indonesia or Denmark’s Mia Blichfeldt. As the only remaining Indian player in the tournament, she carries the hopes of her nation after the early exits of Lakshya Sen and Malvika Bansod, who were both eliminated in the first round.