Sporting world have been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic with almost every tournament either cancelled or posponed. The Tokyo Olympics was postponed till 2021 and there are murmurs that the Games may not be held next year if the world is unable to find a vaccine for the dreaded virus.

Sporting world have been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic with almost every tournament either cancelled or posponed. The Tokyo Olympics was postponed till 2021 and there are murmurs that the Games may not be held next year if the world is unable to find a vaccine for the dreaded virus. Badminton is one of the sports to be affected the most by the pandemic with numerous events suspended. The reigning queen of world badminton, PV Sindhu, in an exclusive interview with WION's Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, opened up on life in lockdown, badminton post-lockdown, postponement of Tokyo Olympics, the rise of women's badminton, the role of mental strength in the world of sports, and much more. × Digvijay Singh Deo: Sindhu, good to see you smiling as always, how have you been? Sindhu: Well it has been nice actually because this experience is something completely new for me. Since I am usually travelling a lot, I don't get to spend much time with my parents, so it is nice to be able to do that and learn new things. I'm trying to stay positive during the break, I understand that it can be difficult being locked indoors, but it has been a welcome break for me and I'm enjoying it. DSD: Social distancing is extremely vital Sindhu but you also stay with elderly parents, so how are the daily essentials being managed at home? Sindhu: We have actually been practising social distancing since I came back from England in early March. All of us stayed in separate rooms for 21 days and even now we are maintaining a considerable physical distance while we are inside the house. Initially, for those 21 days, I couldn't even meet my nephew or sister in that period. Fortunately, we live in a gated society, so we do not need to leave our colony for any essential services. DSD: Life as a badminton player is one of extreme practice, for you usually the day begins at 4:30 in the morning at times so how have you controlled that urge of staying indoors? Sindhu: Well it is difficult to adjust to this new life.before the lockdown, my life revolved around training and playing tournaments. I obviously do not have the opportunity to train outdoors, but I am working on my physical fitness at home. My father helps me with my training at home and I am in constant touch with my trainer through video calls. Apart from that, I am trying to learn new skills and attempting to make the most of my time away from badminton. I am definitely missing the game and being out there on the court, but I understand the need of the hour is for people to stay at home. It is the right decision that has been taken by the government and we must adhere to their guidelines. DSD: None of us has a choice at the moment Sindhu but has this period been of one of reflection for you. You still have a good many years ahead of you but its been a pretty impressive career so far, four straight finals in major tournaments and a first global title for Indian badminton... Sindhu: I must say this lockdown is a welcome break. When I was 18 or 19, many people used to ask me whether I had a life away from badminton, since I was not able to do much else. So this break is giving me a taste of life on the other side and I'm happy to be able to spend quality time with my family. DSD: Usually badminton players raise it a notch when a big tournament approaches, so right now with no tournament on the horizon how are you dealing with this period of uncertainty? Sindhu: I think every athlete was working hard ahead of the Olympics because there were only a few months left for the showpiece event when the virus started to spread. I feel the correct decision was made regarding the Olympic postponement because we cannot endanger the health of so many people. I'm sure it is a problem for some of the athletes because it means restructuring your entire plan for the games. But we cannot control the prevailing situation and there is bound to be uncertainty in these times because we don't know when badminton will resume. But athletes can still work on their physical fitness and remain focussed. It is important to stay in shape because once the sport resumes if it will be tough for players to perform well unless they have maintained their fitness. DSD: You stay in a gated community, so are you managing to go for a run? Sindhu: Yes, I have recently started going for a run inside my community, but have not stepped out of the society on to the main streets. When I returned from England, I was initially in self-isolation for 15 days, but then officials from the health department instructed me to remain indoors for five more days. I realised how important these precautionary measures were and followed the government's guidelines. We have to ensure that we religiously follow the rules for our health as a society. DSD: I did see you hitting the shuttle against the wall in an attempt to keep the skill levels up, is that the biggest worry of staying sharp till this lockdown ends... Sindhu: I think the skill level of all badminton players is bound to go down because of the lack of training. But there are various exercises one can do stay sharp, these can be shadow practice sessions or wall exercises. It is important to not lose touch while playing with the shuttle. But overall, players will be a bit rusty when they return to the circuit and will take some time for all of us to perform at the top level. DSD: As a badminton player and as an elite athlete what are the areas that you think all players will struggle when this period ends… Sindhu: I think athletes will struggle, both in terms of fitness and skill. Players will need some amount of game training before they can get into the natural shot-making rhythm. Movement is crucial for badminton players and the mobility of the players will be affected post the lockdown. Our stamina levels will also go down because of the lack of on-court action. It will take time to build our endurance levels as well. There is, of course, some aspects of our game which we can work on indoors, but ultimately nothing can replace on-court training. So overall. I think it will be a mental, physical and skill-based challenge for all players when we return. DSD: How long in your opinion will it take for the top athletes to return to their peak levels once the lockdown ends? Sindhu: I think it will take a considerable amount of time. Every player has a distinct style of play, so the way they approach the game is different. Every player also has a different endurance level and that will determine how they deal with things once the lockdown ends. So there is no a specific time frame I can give in which the players will return to their peak levels, it completely depends on the fitness and ability of the player. DSD: As a badminton player what are the precautions you would advise your fellow team-mates and even young players to follow.obviously the mandatory handshakes will have to go for the time being. as Rafael Nadal said even giving your best friend a hug when you see them after ages is not going to be allowed. Sindhu: I think social distancing rules should be continued for an extended period of time, even in the world of sport. Pre-match and post-match handshakes should be avoided once sport resumes. We cannot take a casual approach towards the coronavirus even when it is safe to restart sporting activities. We must take basic precautionary measures like wearing masks or carrying hand sanitizer at all times with us. But most importantly our attitude towards the virus should not change once things start opening up, some precautions must be taken otherwise the virus will continue to spread. DSD: For a majority of sportspersons across the world the big goal this year was the Olympic Games. You have fond memories of the Olympics of course and your track record in big tournaments is outstanding. So for you personally was the postponement a huge disappointment or had you mentally prepared yourself for the announcement given the situation? Sindhu: When the virus started spreading rapidly and became a global threat, the thought did enter my mind that there was a possibility of the Olympics being postponed. So when the announcement was made, it wasn't a complete shock. But at the same time, till the official announcement was made, I kept preparing for the July 2020 Olympics because you cannot afford to lose any time ahead of the biggest event in the sporting world. It was obviously the right decision because it is impossible to travel and hold tournaments during a global health crisis. Our rankings have also been frozen, and whatever decision the badminton world federation takes regarding the Olympic qualification will have to be respected. DSD: There has been continuous messaging that the Olympics may not be held next year as well if the world is unable to find a vaccine. As an elite athlete how disturbing is that thought? Sindhu: Yes it is difficult to process that if a vaccine does not come up, then the Tokyo Olympics might not even be held. But even if that is the case, our health always has to be the top priority. It is difficult to say what the global situation will be in a year, so things are very uncertain. As of now, we have no idea when the tournaments will begin. I don't think the dates for any major event can be set in stone right now and we can only speculate. We must wait for the situation to improve. I believe the decision on the 2021 Olympics will also not be made until we have more clarity, which will obviously be sometime next year. DSD: Every sport is different and has different preparations, Sindhu. The boxers usually are aggressive and have more swagger, from your experience in badminton what is the correct mental preparation for the Olympics and World Championships? Sindhu: In a big tournament like the Olympics, mental preparation plays an even bigger role in your performance. Rest is also key in the Olympics because there can be lots of distractions when you're playing at that level. There is also a lot of pressure. The approach to each game is different and you have to be confident of your abilities at that level. At the same time, one cannot be overconfident because every player aims to be at their peak during the showpiece event. So, each player has a different approach towards the Olympics, but hard-work and mental toughness are key. DSD: Also just to follow up on that how important is mental toughness on the court? You obviously head into every match believing you could win but many a time the opponent goes on a deep run, so how do you stay in the game? Sindhu: You cannot give up at any point during the match, one must have the confidence to turn things around at the top level. One the other hand, when you are leading, you can never get complacent and take your victory for granted. That is why your temperament plays a key role at the highest level. I always to aim to give my best as a player, winning and losing is secondary. My priority for every match is to go out there and give my absolute all for my country. There might be matches when a player performs brilliantly but falls to a defeat. There can even be occasions when luck doesn't favour you, but what must stay consistent is the effort that you put into a match. DSD: You had two high profile losses in the World Championship finals and I remember you in tears after losing to Carolina Marin in 2018 final. Yet when it came to 2019 final you absolutely thrashed Okuhara in the summit clash. What did you do differently? Sindhu: I was desperate for the world championship title. Having lost 2 world championship finals I was determined to put my final blues behind me and was better prepared mentally and physically. I was actually prepared for a long match against Japan's Nozomi Okuhara. I knew there would be a lot of pressure on me because of my past results, but I ensured that I turned everything out when I went on the court. From the first point in that match till the very last one, I gave my absolute all and that is why I was able to win in the manner that I did. That's what made the victory so sweet. DSD: There has been a slight dip in form in your performances since that world championship crown, was it expected given how much effort you put in to get that world title? Sindhu: Losing is part of the game and I must learn from the mistakes I made after the world championships. I was definitely disappointed with my performances, but at the same time, I tried not to obsess over my form since that can have an adverse effect and further deteriorate my results. I have also learnt to accept the fact that I will lose some games, no player in the world is capable of winning every match. In 2020, I reached the quarter-final in a couple of tournaments and was building confidence ahead of the Olympics. Before the postponement announcement, I approached all tournaments that I played in as preparation for the Olympics. My ultimate goal remains to win a gold medal at the games. When I lose, I try not to get too disheartened and when I win, I do not allow myself to get complacent. It is important to keep your feet on the ground and never lose belief in yourself. DSD: You constantly stay in touch with your fellow players, even those who are your immediate rivals and I still remember you on a see-saw with Yihan Wang the night of your Olympic final in Rio. How is the rest of the badminton world coping with this lockdown? Sindhu: Yes I am in touch with many Indian sportspersons and inquire about their well-being. I spoke with Carolina Marin as well, since Spain was badly hit by the virus. I think the lockdown measures in most countries are the same. Marin is also staying indoors and trying to make the best of use of her time. It is good to see various athletes from all sports posting motivational videos on social media. DSD: Right through last year we saw a bit of a gap opening up in women’s singles. There was Tai Tzu Ying who was dominating and there was very little to separate the next 7-8 players.Akane Yamaguchi, Okuhara, Ratchanok Intanon, the returning Marin, you. Is this the tightest field in women’s badminton that you have seen in your decade long career? Sindhu: Even before the 2016 Olympics, the women's game was very competitive, with a lot of top Chinese players. But since the 2016 Games, the level of competition has improved further. I think that is essential for the growth of women's badminton. As you said, it is great that any of the top ten players can beat each other on their day and all of them are capable of winning big tournaments. The pace of the game has also changed, it has become faster and more intense. Also, all top players have a different style of play, which is great for the game. Tai Tzu Ying is a very wristy, skilful player while Marin has a powerful attacking game. The level of competition is very high and hopefully, it will continue for a long time. DSD: You have had some great matches against Tai Tzu. You beat her at the Rio Olympics but she then went on a run against you.now when the losses pile up how do you keep believing that I can beat her. Ultimately you beat her at two of the biggest tournaments that matter, the world tour finals in 2018 and then the world championship last year... Sindhu: Yes it has been a very tough battle against her over the years. That world championship quarter-final victory last year gave me a lot of confidence to go on and win the whole tournament. I came back from a set down and eventually prevailed after the scores were locked at 19 all in the deciding set. Winning such a tight affair against a player like Tai Tzu Ying was really a turning point for me. DSD: Of all these players I mentioned though who is the most difficult to play against where you know that you have no breathing space and that every shot has to be perfect. Sindhu: I think every player presents a different challenge. But yes Tai Tzu Ying can produce that moment of magic at any point during the match, she is so skilful. Even Ratchanak Intanon is a very challenging player to face. The top ten are all players of the highest order and even one mistake can lead to a defeat. Every point in a match is crucial regardless of the quality of the opponent. DSD: Time to wind this down. What is on your bucket list the moment the lockdown is lifted and we can safely get on with our lives? Sindhu: I just want to be back on the court and start playing badminton again, as simple as that.

Exclusive: 'Level of competition is high, game is now faster and more intense' - PV Sindhu discusses rise of women's badminton, postponement of Olympics, and more

lockdown diaries with PV Sindhu | World champion sets sights on 2021 Olympics world champion pv sindhu admits that while the prevailing lockdown isn't conducive for elite athletes, sportspersons and especially her fellow badminton players have to adapt to the situation and keep up a basic fitness regime or face getting out when the season resumes.the 2016 olympic silver medalist believes that the women's game has improved in leaps and bounds since the rio olympics with very little separating the top 8 players in the world.

lockdown diaries with PV Sindhu | World champion sets sights on 2021 Olympics

<p class="MsoNormal">The entire Indian sports fraternity on Sunday came forward while joining millions of fellow countrymen in a bid to show solidarity in the battle against COVID-19 and thank the healthcare professionals and others who are in the front line of the defence in the battle against the dreaded virus. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">From cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, to name a few, to six-time Boxing World Champions MC Mary Kam and PV Sindhu – everyone came out in their respective balconies and gardens and lit diyas and candles at 9 pm for 9 minutes on Sunday to show unity against the battle against COVID-19 as appealed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.<br style="mso-special-character:line-break" />
<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Some of them took to social media platforms to share their photos and videos while lighting up diyas and candles on Sunday evening. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"My family &amp; I thank the selfless #SanitationWarriors cleaning our surroundings &amp; hospitals, disinfecting affected areas &amp; thus keeping the virus at bay. Let's also reignite our pledge to take care of our elders, the most vulnerable - by ensuring their physical &amp; mental wellness," Tendulkar wrote while sharing a family picture with lights.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijender-singh-hopes-for-pro-career-to-resume-in-second-half-of-2020-290808" hreflang="en">Vijender Singh hopes for pro career to resume in second half of 2020</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My family &amp; I thank the selfless <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanitationWarriors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanitationWarriors</a> cleaning our surroundings &amp; hospitals, disinfecting affected areas &amp; thus keeping the virus at bay. Let’s also reignite our pledge to take care of our elders, the most vulnerable - by ensuring their physical &amp; mental wellness. <a href="https://t.co/tTheS9oO4I">pic.twitter.com/tTheS9oO4I</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1246831577364983809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%9C%E0%A5%879%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%9F?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9बजे9मिनट</a>, let’s stand is solidarity &amp; beat this terrible time the whole world is going through. We can do it India! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9baje9mintues?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9baje9mintues</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/gyVOGWG2cw">pic.twitter.com/gyVOGWG2cw</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1246825186508386305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In solidarity with each and every single person who is playing their part. We are all in this together and shall overcome this soon.<br />
Om Shantih Shantih Shantih<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%9C%E0%A5%879%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%9F?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9बजे9मिनट</a> <a href="https://t.co/Q32a1cZRpa">pic.twitter.com/Q32a1cZRpa</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1246825634560540673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A prayer in unity does make a difference. Pray for every being and stand together <a href="https://t.co/EcmiX7EcoA">https://t.co/EcmiX7EcoA</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1246837211972030467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">#letstogetherfightcovid19#9pm9min <a href="https://t.co/oCvFSWLN83">pic.twitter.com/oCvFSWLN83</a></p>
— Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1/status/1246840895439134720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In solidarity toward <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCoronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCoronavirus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9MinutesForIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9MinutesForIndia</a>. <a href="https://t.co/y2OIFiGWTH">pic.twitter.com/y2OIFiGWTH</a></p>
— Mary Kom (@MangteC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MangteC/status/1246830051976331265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All for one and one for all <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9pm9mins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9pm9mins</a> <a href="https://t.co/MaXlkUVb5d">pic.twitter.com/MaXlkUVb5d</a></p>
— Mayank Agarwal (@mayankcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/mayankcricket/status/1246835737976131586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9pm9minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9pm9minutes</a> <a href="https://t.co/PrgZP3zCWD">pic.twitter.com/PrgZP3zCWD</a></p>
— Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/NSaina/status/1246822084149305351?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-club-doctor-commits-suicide-after-coronavirus-diagnosis-290805" hreflang="en">French club doctor 'commits suicide' after coronavirus diagnosis</a></strong></p>

<p>As many as 40 sportspersons on Friday had held a video-conference meeting with PM Modi to discuss the situation surrounding COVID-19 virus. Many of them gave their suggestions to the Indian prime minister and mutually agreed that they need to spread more awareness regarding the dreaded virus on their respective social media handles. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus cases in India saw a sharp spike death toll, thus far, crossed the 100-mark, whereas the total number of positive cases crossed 4000.<o:p></o:p></p>

The entire Indian sports fraternity on Sunday came forward while joining millions of fellow countrymen in a bid to show solidarity in the battle against COVID-19 and thank the healthcare professionals and others who are in the front line of the defence in the battle against the dreaded virus.

The entire Indian sports fraternity on Sunday came forward while joining millions of fellow countrymen in a bid to show solidarity in the battle against COVID-19 and thank the healthcare professionals and others who are in the front line of the defence in the battle against the dreaded virus. From cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, to name a few, to six-time Boxing World Champions MC Mary Kam and PV Sindhu – everyone came out in their respective balconies and gardens and lit diyas and candles at 9 pm for 9 minutes on Sunday to show unity against the battle against COVID-19 as appealed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Some of them took to social media platforms to share their photos and videos while lighting up diyas and candles on Sunday evening. "My family & I thank the selfless #SanitationWarriors cleaning our surroundings & hospitals, disinfecting affected areas & thus keeping the virus at bay. Let's also reignite our pledge to take care of our elders, the most vulnerable - by ensuring their physical & mental wellness," Tendulkar wrote while sharing a family picture with lights. ALSO READ: Vijender Singh hopes for pro career to resume in second half of 2020 My family & I thank the selfless #SanitationWarriors cleaning our surroundings & hospitals, disinfecting affected areas & thus keeping the virus at bay. Let’s also reignite our pledge to take care of our elders, the most vulnerable - by ensuring their physical & mental wellness. pic.twitter.com/tTheS9oO4I — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 5, 2020 × #9बजे9मिनट, let’s stand is solidarity & beat this terrible time the whole world is going through. We can do it India! #COVID2019 #9baje9mintues @PMOIndia @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/gyVOGWG2cw — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) April 5, 2020 × In solidarity with each and every single person who is playing their part. We are all in this together and shall overcome this soon. Om Shantih Shantih Shantih#9बजे9मिनट pic.twitter.com/Q32a1cZRpa — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) April 5, 2020 × A prayer in unity does make a difference. Pray for every being and stand together https://t.co/EcmiX7EcoA — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) April 5, 2020 × #letstogetherfightcovid19#9pm9min pic.twitter.com/oCvFSWLN83 — Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) April 5, 2020 × In solidarity toward #IndiaFightsCoronavirus #9MinutesForIndia. pic.twitter.com/y2OIFiGWTH — Mary Kom (@MangteC) April 5, 2020 × All for one and one for all #9pm9mins pic.twitter.com/MaXlkUVb5d — Mayank Agarwal (@mayankcricket) April 5, 2020 × #9pm9minutes pic.twitter.com/PrgZP3zCWD — Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) April 5, 2020 × ALSO READ: French club doctor 'commits suicide' after coronavirus diagnosis As many as 40 sportspersons on Friday had held a video-conference meeting with PM Modi to discuss the situation surrounding COVID-19 virus. Many of them gave their suggestions to the Indian prime minister and mutually agreed that they need to spread more awareness regarding the dreaded virus on their respective social media handles. Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus cases in India saw a sharp spike death toll, thus far, crossed the 100-mark, whereas the total number of positive cases crossed 4000.

From Virat Kohli, PV Sindhu to MC Mary Kom: Sports fraternity lights diyas, candles to show solidarity in fight against COVID-19

From Virat Kohli to Mary Kom - Sportspersons and state authorities who have donated to help India fight COVID-19 pandemic

<p>Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu on Thursday announced that she has donated a sum of Rs 5 lakh each to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Chief Ministers Relief Funds in a bid to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sindhu took to social media platform Twitter to make an announcement as she wrote: "I hereby donate an amount of Rs 5,00,000/- each (Rs five lakhs) towards the "Chief Ministers Relief Fund" for the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I hereby donate an amount of Rs 5,00,000/- each (Rs five lakhs ) towards the "Chief Ministers Relief Fund"<br />
for the States of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19. <a href="https://twitter.com/TelanganaCMO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TelanganaCMO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AndhraPradeshCM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AndhraPradeshCM</a></p>
— Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1/status/1243071265356673026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jos-buttler-hoping-for-shortened-ipl-in-wake-of-covid-19-pandemic-288606">Jos Buttler hoping for shortened IPL in wake of COVID-19 pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p>Sindhu has been pretty active on social media platforms since the novel coronavirus took almost the entire world under its dreaded wings. The 2016 Rio Olympics silver medallist has been spreading awareness about the novel coronavirus by posting video messages on her social media handles.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Please stay safe <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stayhome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stayhome</a> We are a great nation and in this very difficult time let’s all fight together and overcome this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID%E3%83%BC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVIDー19</a> <a href="https://t.co/QWWzmxnw20">pic.twitter.com/QWWzmxnw20</a></p>
— Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1/status/1242755231764500481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mithali-raj-wants-womens-ipl-next-year-says-bcci-shouldnt-wait-forever-288604">Mithali Raj wants women's IPL next year, says BCCI shouldn't wait forever</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Athletes stepping in</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly donated rice worth Rs 50 lakh for the underprivileged as India continues to fight against COVID-19. Not only</p>

<p>Ganguly but donations have been coming through all parts of India with South superstar Pawan Kalyan also donating a total sum of Rs 2 crore to combat the spread of COVID-19.</p>

<p>Star wrestler Bajrang Punia even donated his entire salary for six months to Haryana coronavirus relief fund. Whereas former India opener and BJP MP Gautam Gambhir also offered to donate Rs 50 lakh from his Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) fund. Furthermore,</p>

<p>Tennis star Sania Mirza also joined in to raise funds to provide food and basic necessities for the daily wage workers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus far, around 650 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reposted in India as the nation continues to be under a 21-day ‘complete lockdown’.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu on Thursday announced that she has donated a sum of Rs 5 lakh each to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Chief Ministers Relief Funds in a bid to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu on Thursday announced that she has donated a sum of Rs 5 lakh each to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Chief Ministers Relief Funds in a bid to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Sindhu took to social media platform Twitter to make an announcement as she wrote: "I hereby donate an amount of Rs 5,00,000/- each (Rs five lakhs) towards the "Chief Ministers Relief Fund" for the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19." I hereby donate an amount of Rs 5,00,000/- each (Rs five lakhs ) towards the "Chief Ministers Relief Fund" for the States of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19. @TelanganaCMO @AndhraPradeshCM — Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) March 26, 2020 × ALSO READ: Jos Buttler hoping for shortened IPL in wake of COVID-19 pandemic Sindhu has been pretty active on social media platforms since the novel coronavirus took almost the entire world under its dreaded wings. The 2016 Rio Olympics silver medallist has been spreading awareness about the novel coronavirus by posting video messages on her social media handles. Please stay safe #stayhome We are a great nation and in this very difficult time let’s all fight together and overcome this #COVIDー19 pic.twitter.com/QWWzmxnw20 — Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) March 25, 2020 × ALSO READ: Mithali Raj wants women's IPL next year, says BCCI shouldn't wait forever Athletes stepping in Earlier, the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly donated rice worth Rs 50 lakh for the underprivileged as India continues to fight against COVID-19. Not only Ganguly but donations have been coming through all parts of India with South superstar Pawan Kalyan also donating a total sum of Rs 2 crore to combat the spread of COVID-19. Star wrestler Bajrang Punia even donated his entire salary for six months to Haryana coronavirus relief fund. Whereas former India opener and BJP MP Gautam Gambhir also offered to donate Rs 50 lakh from his Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) fund. Furthermore, Tennis star Sania Mirza also joined in to raise funds to provide food and basic necessities for the daily wage workers. Thus far, around 650 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reposted in India as the nation continues to be under a 21-day ‘complete lockdown’.

PV Sindhu donates Rs 5 lakh each to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to fight against COVID-19

<p>India's ace shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../bwf-saina-nehwal-bows-out-of-malaysia- masters-after-losing-to-carolina-marin-273457">PV Sindhu</a> on Thursday crashed out of the Indonesia Masters 2020 after losing her second-round match.</p>

<p><strong>Also read-&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-world-no-1-kento-momota-arrives-home-after-fatal-car-crash-274414">Badminton: World No 1 Kento Momota arrives home after fatal car crash</a></p>

<p>BWF World Champion lost to Japan's Sayaka Takahashi 21-16, 16-21, 19-21 in one hour and six minutes long encounter.</p>

<p><strong>Also read-&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/judge-orders-rio-2016-olympic-games-venues-shut-on-security-grounds-274690">Judge orders Rio 2016 Olympic Games venues shut on security grounds</a></p>

<p>It was a humiliating defeat for world number six at the hands of world number 14. Sindhu was the sole Indian left in the competition after all the shutters, barring her, lost their first-round matches on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The 24-year-old Rio Olympics bronze medallist secured the first game but the Japanese made a comeback in the match and clinched the match. Sindhu tried hard in the third game but failed to turn things in her favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu on Thursday crashed out of the Indonesia Masters 2020 after losing her second-round match. Also read- Badminton: World No 1 Kento Momota arrives home after fatal car crash BWF World Champion lost to Japan's Sayaka Takahashi 21-16, 16-21, 19-21 in one hour and six minutes long encounter.

India's ace shuttler PV Sindhu on Thursday crashed out of the Indonesia Masters 2020 after losing her second-round match. Also read- Badminton: World No 1 Kento Momota arrives home after fatal car crash BWF World Champion lost to Japan's Sayaka Takahashi 21-16, 16-21, 19-21 in one hour and six minutes long encounter. Also read- Judge orders Rio 2016 Olympic Games venues shut on security grounds It was a humiliating defeat for world number six at the hands of world number 14. Sindhu was the sole Indian left in the competition after all the shutters, barring her, lost their first-round matches on Wednesday. The 24-year-old Rio Olympics bronze medallist secured the first game but the Japanese made a comeback in the match and clinched the match. Sindhu tried hard in the third game but failed to turn things in her favour.

Indonesian Masters: PV Sindhu knocked out in second round

<p>Indian shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-progresses-to-quarter-finals-of-malaysia-masters-273215">Saina Nehwal</a> on Friday crashed out of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-sameer-verma-ousted-from-malaysia-masters-273212">Malaysia Masters</a> after losing in the quarterfinals.<br />
<br />
The world number 11 lost against Spanish shuttler Carolina Marin 21-7, 21-7 in straight games. Marin had dominance in the whole game and came out with an easy triumph in the 30-minute long clash.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Highlights | <a href="https://twitter.com/CarolinaMarin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CarolinaMarin</a> 🇪🇸 pulls out all the stops to overcome Nehwal 🇮🇳 in two straight games 🏸<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HSBCBWFbadminton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HSBCBWFbadminton</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MalaysiaMasters2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MalaysiaMasters2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HSBCRaceToGuangzhou?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HSBCRaceToGuangzhou</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldTour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldTour</a> <a href="https://t.co/9dhVMMoCoc">pic.twitter.com/9dhVMMoCoc</a></p>
— BWF (@bwfmedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/bwfmedia/status/1215573812433039360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>With Nehwal's loss, India's participation in the competition is over now.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pv-sindhu-cruises-to-quarterfinals-of-malaysia-masters-273209">PV Sindhu</a> faced a defeat at the hands of Taiwan's Tai Tzu-Ying in straight games 21-16, 21-16. The clash lasted for 36 minutes and the world number two opponent had the upper hand in the encounter.<br />
<br />
Sindhu on Thursday thrashed Japan's Aya Ohori in straight games 21-10, 21-15 that lasted 34 minutes.</p>


Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal on Friday crashed out of Malaysia Masters after losing in the quarterfinals. The world number 11 lost against Spanish shuttler Carolina Marin 21-7, 21-7 in straight games.

Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal on Friday crashed out of Malaysia Masters after losing in the quarterfinals. The world number 11 lost against Spanish shuttler Carolina Marin 21-7, 21-7 in straight games. Marin had dominance in the whole game and came out with an easy triumph in the 30-minute long clash. Highlights | @CarolinaMarin 🇪🇸 pulls out all the stops to overcome Nehwal 🇮🇳 in two straight games 🏸#HSBCBWFbadminton #MalaysiaMasters2020 #HSBCRaceToGuangzhou #WorldTour pic.twitter.com/9dhVMMoCoc — BWF (@bwfmedia) January 10, 2020 × With Nehwal's loss, India's participation in the competition is over now. Earlier in the day, PV Sindhu faced a defeat at the hands of Taiwan's Tai Tzu-Ying in straight games 21-16, 21-16. The clash lasted for 36 minutes and the world number two opponent had the upper hand in the encounter. Sindhu on Thursday thrashed Japan's Aya Ohori in straight games 21-10, 21-15 that lasted 34 minutes.

BWF: Saina Nehwal bows out of Malaysia Masters after losing to Carolina Marin

<p>Indian Shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shuttler-hs-prannoy-crashes-out-from-nz-open-badminton-tournament-indias-campaign-ends-215659">HS Prannoy</a> was knocked out of the ongoing Malaysia Masters here on Thursday.</p>

<p>Prannoy suffered a defeat in the second round of the match at the hands of Japan's Kento Momota 14-21, 16-21 in a match that lasted for 45 minutes.</p>

<p>On the other hand, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-stunned-in-first-round-of-china-open-260271">Sania Nehwal</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pv-sindhu-advances-to-second-round-of-hong-kong-open-261766">PV Sindhu</a> cruised to the quarterfinals of the tournament.</p>

<p>Nehwal outclassed Korea's An Se Young 25-23, 21-12 in about minutes 38 minutes. While Sindhu defeated Japan's Aya Ohori in straight games 21-10, 21-15 in the match that lasted for 34 minutes.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Sameer Verma faced a defeat in the second round of the competition.</p>

<p>Verma lost the match at the hands of Malaysia's Lee Jia in straight games 19-21, 20-22.</p>


Indian Shuttler HS Prannoy was knocked out of the ongoing Malaysia Masters here on Thursday. Prannoy suffered a defeat in the second round of the match at the hands of Japan's Kento Momota 14-21, 16-21 in a match that lasted for 45 minutes.

Indian Shuttler HS Prannoy was knocked out of the ongoing Malaysia Masters here on Thursday. Prannoy suffered a defeat in the second round of the match at the hands of Japan's Kento Momota 14-21, 16-21 in a match that lasted for 45 minutes. On the other hand, Sania Nehwal and PV Sindhu cruised to the quarterfinals of the tournament. Nehwal outclassed Korea's An Se Young 25-23, 21-12 in about minutes 38 minutes. While Sindhu defeated Japan's Aya Ohori in straight games 21-10, 21-15 in the match that lasted for 34 minutes. Earlier in the day, Sameer Verma faced a defeat in the second round of the competition. Verma lost the match at the hands of Malaysia's Lee Jia in straight games 19-21, 20-22.

BWF: HS Prannoy crashes out of Malaysia Masters

<p>Shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-makes-first-round-exit-from-hong-kong-open-261705">Saina Nehwal</a> on Thursday progressed to the quarter-finals in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-loses-to-carolina-marin-in-semi-final-of-malaysia-masters-191421">Malaysia Masters</a> after registering a win in the second round.</p>

<p>Nehwal defeated Korea's An Se Young 25-23, 21-12 in about minutes 38 minutes.</p>

<p>The first game saw back and forth action between both shuttlers, and in the end, Nehwal kept her cool to win it.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the 29-year-old had outclassed Belgium's Lianne Tan 21-15, 21-17 to move ahead to the pre-quarterfinals.</p>

<p>Men's shuttlers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fuzhou-china-open-p-kashyap-crashes-out-after-losing-to-viktor-axelsen-260476">Parupalli Kashyap</a> and Kidambi Srikanth lost their matches to Kento Momota and Chou Tien Chen respectively and as a result, crashed out of the tournament on Wednesday.</p>


Shuttler Saina Nehwal on Thursday progressed to the quarter-finals in the ongoing Malaysia Masters after registering a win in the second round. Nehwal defeated Korea's An Se Young 25-23, 21-12 in about minutes 38 minutes.

Shuttler Saina Nehwal on Thursday progressed to the quarter-finals in the ongoing Malaysia Masters after registering a win in the second round. Nehwal defeated Korea's An Se Young 25-23, 21-12 in about minutes 38 minutes. The first game saw back and forth action between both shuttlers, and in the end, Nehwal kept her cool to win it. On Wednesday, the 29-year-old had outclassed Belgium's Lianne Tan 21-15, 21-17 to move ahead to the pre-quarterfinals. Men's shuttlers Parupalli Kashyap and Kidambi Srikanth lost their matches to Kento Momota and Chou Tien Chen respectively and as a result, crashed out of the tournament on Wednesday.

BWF: Saina Nehwal progresses to quarter-finals of Malaysia Masters

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bwf-world-championships-praneeth-settles-with-bronze-loses-to-kento-momota-in-semis-245368">BWF World Championships</a> defending champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-tour-finals-pv-sindhu-set-to-defend-title-in-china-267521">PV Sindhu</a> on Thursday cruised to the quarterfinals of the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-loses-to-carolina-marin-in-semi-final-of-malaysia-masters-191421">Malaysia Masters</a> after winning a second-round match.</p>

<p>The 24-year-old had the upper hand in the clash and thrashed Japan's Aya Ohori in straight games 21-10, 21-15 that lasted for 34-minute. The world number six will now play in her quarterfinal match on January 10.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-stunned-in-first-round-of-china-open-260271">Saina Nehwal</a> defeated South Korea's An Se Young 25-23, 21-12 in 38 minutes. The first game saw back and forth action between both shuttlers. In the end, Nehwal kept her cool to win the match.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the 29-year-old had outclassed Belgium's Lianne Tan 21-15, 21-17 to progress to the pre-quarterfinals.</p>

<p>Shuttlers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fuzhou-china-open-p-kashyap-crashes-out-after-losing-to-viktor-axelsen-260476">Parupalli Kashyap</a> and Kidambi Srikanth crashed out of the tournament after losing their matches to Japan's Kento Momota and Chou Tien Chen of Chinese Taipei respectively.</p>


BWF World Championships defending champion PV Sindhu on Thursday cruised to the quarterfinals of the ongoing Malaysia Masters after winning a second-round match.

BWF World Championships defending champion PV Sindhu on Thursday cruised to the quarterfinals of the ongoing Malaysia Masters after winning a second-round match. The 24-year-old had the upper hand in the clash and thrashed Japan's Aya Ohori in straight games 21-10, 21-15 that lasted for 34-minute. The world number six will now play in her quarterfinal match on January 10. Earlier in the day, Saina Nehwal defeated South Korea's An Se Young 25-23, 21-12 in 38 minutes. The first game saw back and forth action between both shuttlers. In the end, Nehwal kept her cool to win the match. On Wednesday, the 29-year-old had outclassed Belgium's Lianne Tan 21-15, 21-17 to progress to the pre-quarterfinals. Shuttlers Parupalli Kashyap and Kidambi Srikanth crashed out of the tournament after losing their matches to Japan's Kento Momota and Chou Tien Chen of Chinese Taipei respectively.

BWF: PV Sindhu cruises to quarterfinals of Malaysia Masters

<p>Indian shuttler<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fuzhou-china-open-pv-sindhu-faces-first-round-exit-after-losing-to-pai-yu-po-260071"> PV Sindhu</a> will begin the defence of the BWF world tour&nbsp;finals title on Wednesday as the last event of the badminton calendar which gets underway in Guangzhou in China.</p>

<p>The tournament pits the top eight shuttlers of the year against each other but Sindhu only qualified because the world champions in each of the five categories are given automatic entry.</p>

<p>Sindhu's year has been very inconsistent overall and she has failed to make it past the quarter-finals in any of her six tournaments since the world championship triumph.</p>

<p>The players are divided into two groups of four each with the top-two at the end of the round-robin stage progressing to the semi-finals.</p>

<p>Sindhu finds herself in the easier of the two groups, at least on paper. The Indian shuttler opens her campaign against Japanese world no. 4 Akane Yamaguchi on Wednesday who had a stunning season in the middle of the year before her momentum was halted by a hip strain.</p>

<p>World no. 2 Chen Yufei and world no. 7 He Bingjiao both from China are the other players in the group.</p>

<p>Sindhu's match against He Bingjiao could be the key with the Indian trailing 5-9 in head-to-head meetings and having lost the last four matches in a row.</p>

<p>The other group is headed by world no. 1 Tai Tzu-ying alongside world no. 3 Nozomi Okuhara, world no. 5 Ratchanok Intanon and this year's surprise finalist world no. 16 Busanan ong-bam-rung-phan.</p>


Indian shuttler PV Sindhu will begin the defence of the BWF world tour finals title on Wednesday as the last event of the badminton calendar which gets underway in Guangzhou in China.

Indian shuttler PV Sindhu will begin the defence of the BWF world tour finals title on Wednesday as the last event of the badminton calendar which gets underway in Guangzhou in China. The tournament pits the top eight shuttlers of the year against each other but Sindhu only qualified because the world champions in each of the five categories are given automatic entry. Sindhu's year has been very inconsistent overall and she has failed to make it past the quarter-finals in any of her six tournaments since the world championship triumph. The players are divided into two groups of four each with the top-two at the end of the round-robin stage progressing to the semi-finals. Sindhu finds herself in the easier of the two groups, at least on paper. The Indian shuttler opens her campaign against Japanese world no. 4 Akane Yamaguchi on Wednesday who had a stunning season in the middle of the year before her momentum was halted by a hip strain. World no. 2 Chen Yufei and world no. 7 He Bingjiao both from China are the other players in the group. Sindhu's match against He Bingjiao could be the key with the Indian trailing 5-9 in head-to-head meetings and having lost the last four matches in a row. The other group is headed by world no. 1 Tai Tzu-ying alongside world no. 3 Nozomi Okuhara, world no. 5 Ratchanok Intanon and this year's surprise finalist world no. 16 Busanan ong-bam-rung-phan.

World tour finals: PV Sindhu set to defend title in China

<p>Shuttler PV Sindhu on Wednesday advanced further in the ongoing Hong Kong Open after registering a win in the first round of the tournament.</p>

<p>Sindhu defeated South Korea's Kim Ga Eun 21-15, 21-16 to progress further in the competition. The 24-year-old did not waste any time in brushing off her opponents'&nbsp;challenge in the first game and she wrapped it up under 18 minutes. Sindhu carried on with the winning momentum and she wrapped up the second game to record a win in straight games.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saina-nehwal-makes-first-round-exit-from-hong-kong-open-261705">Saina Nehwal was knocked </a>out of the Hong Kong Open after facing a defeat in the first round. Nehwal was defeated by China`s Cai Yan Yan 13-21, 20-22.</p>

<p>The Chinese made an aggressive start to the match and did not allow Nehwal to get into her groove. After losing the first game, Nehwal tried to make a comeback in the second game, but Cai was up to the task as she wrapped up the match quite comprehensively.</p>

<p>World number nine Nehwal has had a troubled run in this year as she has now faced an exit from a tournament in the first round five times. Earlier this year, Cai Yan Yan had knocked out Nehwal in the first round of the China Open.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Shuttler PV Sindhu on Wednesday advanced further in the ongoing Hong Kong Open after registering a win in the first round of the tournament. Sindhu defeated South Korea's Kim Ga Eun 21-15, 21-16 to progress further in the competition.

Shuttler PV Sindhu on Wednesday advanced further in the ongoing Hong Kong Open after registering a win in the first round of the tournament. Sindhu defeated South Korea's Kim Ga Eun 21-15, 21-16 to progress further in the competition. The 24-year-old did not waste any time in brushing off her opponents' challenge in the first game and she wrapped it up under 18 minutes. Sindhu carried on with the winning momentum and she wrapped up the second game to record a win in straight games. Earlier in the day, Saina Nehwal was knocked out of the Hong Kong Open after facing a defeat in the first round. Nehwal was defeated by China`s Cai Yan Yan 13-21, 20-22. The Chinese made an aggressive start to the match and did not allow Nehwal to get into her groove. After losing the first game, Nehwal tried to make a comeback in the second game, but Cai was up to the task as she wrapped up the match quite comprehensively. World number nine Nehwal has had a troubled run in this year as she has now faced an exit from a tournament in the first round five times. Earlier this year, Cai Yan Yan had knocked out Nehwal in the first round of the China Open.

PV Sindhu advances to second round in Hong Kong Open

<p>Olympic-medallist Saina Nehwal suffered a shocking defeat in the opening round of China Open on Wednesday. China's Cai Yan Yan thrashed ninth-ranked Nehwal in straight sets 21-9, 21-12.</p>

<p>On Monday, India's highest-ranked shuttler PV Sindhu also faced a shocking defeat in the first round. Nehwal, who lost against the 22-ranked player, extended her disappointing run after consecutive early-round exits in France, Denmark, and Korea, among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As both top shuttlers are out from the tournament, Satwiksairaj Reddy leads India's hopes as he entered the second round in doubles and mixed doubles in China.&nbsp;</p>


Olympic-medallist Saina Nehwal suffered a shocking defeat in the opening round of China Open on Wednesday. China's Cai Yan Yan thrashed ninth-ranked Nehwal in straight sets 21-9, 21-12.

Olympic-medallist Saina Nehwal suffered a shocking defeat in the opening round of China Open on Wednesday. China's Cai Yan Yan thrashed ninth-ranked Nehwal in straight sets 21-9, 21-12. On Monday, India's highest-ranked shuttler PV Sindhu also faced a shocking defeat in the first round. Nehwal, who lost against the 22-ranked player, extended her disappointing run after consecutive early-round exits in France, Denmark, and Korea, among others. As both top shuttlers are out from the tournament, Satwiksairaj Reddy leads India's hopes as he entered the second round in doubles and mixed doubles in China.

Saina Nehwal stunned in first round of China Open

<p>PV Sindhu on Tuesday crashed out of the Fuzhou China Open after losing the first round match here at the Haixia Olympic Center.</p>

<p>The 24-year-old faced a defeat at the hands of Taiwan's Pai Yu Po 13-21, 21-18, 19-21 in the encounter that lasted for 74 minutes.</p>

<p>After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pv-sindhu-becomes-first-indian-to-win-bwf-world-championships-245566">bagging gold</a> at the BWF World Championships, world number six Sindhu showcased a dismal performance and faced early exits in the Korea Open, Denmark Open, and China Open.</p>

<p>However, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Ashwini Ponnappa ranked 30th, beat Canada's Joshua Hurlburt-Yu and Josephine Wu 21-19 21-19 to make a positive start in the mixed doubles competition.</p>

<p>In men's singles, HS Prannoy, who has recently recovered from dengue, faltered in the opening round, losing 17-21 18-21 to Denmark's Rasmus Gemke.</p>


PV Sindhu on Tuesday crashed out of the Fuzhou China Open after losing the first round match here at the Haixia Olympic Center. The 24-year-old faced a defeat at the hands of Taiwan's Pai Yu Po 13-21, 21-18, 19-21 in the encounter that lasted for 74 minutes.

PV Sindhu on Tuesday crashed out of the Fuzhou China Open after losing the first round match here at the Haixia Olympic Center. The 24-year-old faced a defeat at the hands of Taiwan's Pai Yu Po 13-21, 21-18, 19-21 in the encounter that lasted for 74 minutes. After bagging gold at the BWF World Championships, world number six Sindhu showcased a dismal performance and faced early exits in the Korea Open, Denmark Open, and China Open. However, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Ashwini Ponnappa ranked 30th, beat Canada's Joshua Hurlburt-Yu and Josephine Wu 21-19 21-19 to make a positive start in the mixed doubles competition. In men's singles, HS Prannoy, who has recently recovered from dengue, faltered in the opening round, losing 17-21 18-21 to Denmark's Rasmus Gemke.

Fuzhou China Open: PV Sindhu faces first-round exit after losing to Pai Yu Po

<p>Bollywood star Deepika Padukone is the latest to join the bandwagon reverberating Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Bharat Ki Laxmi'&nbsp;movement and his call to citizens to outline the achievements of India's daughters&nbsp;on this festival of lights Diwali.<br />
<br />
After ace shuttler PV Sindhu, Deepika on Sunday shared a two-minute clip on Twitter highlighting the need to give voice to the accomplishments of daughters. Featuring glimpses of Sindhu and Padukone, the video ends with the PM pressing on the need to bring out the undiscovered inspiration stories of women achievers around us and propagate the message around using #BharatKiLaxmi." This Diwali, let us throw light on &amp; celebrate the contribution &amp; accomplishments of the women of our country! #BharatKiLaxmi," Deepika tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This Diwali, let us throw light on &amp; celebrate the contribution &amp; accomplishments of the women of our country! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatKiLaxmi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatKiLaxmi</a> <a href="https://t.co/ePujWeWXfe">pic.twitter.com/ePujWeWXfe</a></p>
— Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) <a href="https://twitter.com/deepikapadukone/status/1186535209342242816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier in the day, Sindhu also announced her support for PM Modi and tweeted, "Societies grow when women are empowered and their accomplishments are given a place of pride! I support the PM @narendramodi Ji #BharatKiLaxmi movement. It celebrates the extraordinary achievements of extraordinary women in India. This Diwali, let's celebrate womanhood.<br />
<br />
During the 57th episode of his monthly radio address 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi announced the commencement of the campaign during Diwali and called on citizens to outline the achievements of daughters&nbsp;of the country using Bharat Ki Laxmi hashtag.<br />
<br />
There must be numerous daughters amongst us who, through their perseverance, diligence and talent have brought glory to their families, society and the country. This Diwali, can we arrange programs to honour the Laxmi of India?" Modi said.<br />
<br />
"This time, let us do campaign #Bharatkilaxmi. Encouraging the Laxmi of Bharat amounts to strengthening the paths of prosperity for the country and her citizens," he added. Padukone and Sindhu together graced the cover of Femina magazine earlier this month. The two along with Kiran Mazumdarembodied beauty, determination and strength.</p>


Bollywood star Deepika Padukone is the latest to join the bandwagon reverberating Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Bharat Ki Laxmi' movement and his call to citizens to outline the achievements of India's daughters on this festival of lights Diwali.

Bollywood star Deepika Padukone is the latest to join the bandwagon reverberating Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Bharat Ki Laxmi' movement and his call to citizens to outline the achievements of India's daughters on this festival of lights Diwali. After ace shuttler PV Sindhu, Deepika on Sunday shared a two-minute clip on Twitter highlighting the need to give voice to the accomplishments of daughters. Featuring glimpses of Sindhu and Padukone, the video ends with the PM pressing on the need to bring out the undiscovered inspiration stories of women achievers around us and propagate the message around using #BharatKiLaxmi." This Diwali, let us throw light on & celebrate the contribution & accomplishments of the women of our country! #BharatKiLaxmi," Deepika tweeted. This Diwali, let us throw light on & celebrate the contribution & accomplishments of the women of our country! #BharatKiLaxmi pic.twitter.com/ePujWeWXfe — Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) October 22, 2019 × Earlier in the day, Sindhu also announced her support for PM Modi and tweeted, "Societies grow when women are empowered and their accomplishments are given a place of pride! I support the PM @narendramodi Ji #BharatKiLaxmi movement. It celebrates the extraordinary achievements of extraordinary women in India. This Diwali, let's celebrate womanhood. During the 57th episode of his monthly radio address 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi announced the commencement of the campaign during Diwali and called on citizens to outline the achievements of daughters of the country using Bharat Ki Laxmi hashtag. There must be numerous daughters amongst us who, through their perseverance, diligence and talent have brought glory to their families, society and the country. This Diwali, can we arrange programs to honour the Laxmi of India?" Modi said. "This time, let us do campaign #Bharatkilaxmi. Encouraging the Laxmi of Bharat amounts to strengthening the paths of prosperity for the country and her citizens," he added. Padukone and Sindhu together graced the cover of Femina magazine earlier this month. The two along with Kiran Mazumdarembodied beauty, determination and strength.

Deepika Padukone and PV Sindhu joins PM Narendra Modi's 'Bharat Ki Laxmi' movement

<p>Indian badminton player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pv-sindhu-crashes-out-of-china-open-loses-to-thailands-pornpawee-chochuwong-250619">PV Sindhu</a> on Tuesday slipped to the sixth spot in the latest BWF Rankings while Parupalli Kashyap moved up by five positions to make his way in the top 25 rankings.</p>

<p>Sindhu, who was earlier in the fifth position, had a poor run in the Korea Open as she crashed out of the tournament in the first round. In the China Open, she faced a second-round exit.</p>

<p>On the other hand, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ace-shuttlers-saina-nehwal-parupalli-kashyap-tie-the-knot-184076">Kashyap</a> now holds the 25th position as he displayed a brilliant performance in the Korea Open where he managed to reach the semi-finals.</p>

<p>However, he faced a 13-21, 15-21 defeat in the semi-final at the hands of Japan's Kento Momota.</p>

<p>Sai Praneeth and Srikant Kidambi both moved up by one spot to hold the 12th and 9th position respectively.</p>

<p>Another Indian to feature in the Top 25 in the men`s singles list is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-shuttlers-suffer-2-3-loss-to-malaysia-in-sudirman-cup-220371">Sameer Verma</a>, who improved one place to be on the 17th position.</p>

<p>Apart from Sindhu, only Saina Nehwal is there in the Top 25 ranking in the women`s singles. Nehwal did not move from her eighth position in the list.</p>


Indian badminton player PV Sindhu on Tuesday slipped to the sixth spot in the latest BWF Rankings while Parupalli Kashyap moved up by five positions to make his way in the top 25 rankings.

Indian badminton player PV Sindhu on Tuesday slipped to the sixth spot in the latest BWF Rankings while Parupalli Kashyap moved up by five positions to make his way in the top 25 rankings. Sindhu, who was earlier in the fifth position, had a poor run in the Korea Open as she crashed out of the tournament in the first round. In the China Open, she faced a second-round exit. On the other hand, Kashyap now holds the 25th position as he displayed a brilliant performance in the Korea Open where he managed to reach the semi-finals. However, he faced a 13-21, 15-21 defeat in the semi-final at the hands of Japan's Kento Momota. Sai Praneeth and Srikant Kidambi both moved up by one spot to hold the 12th and 9th position respectively. Another Indian to feature in the Top 25 in the men`s singles list is Sameer Verma, who improved one place to be on the 17th position. Apart from Sindhu, only Saina Nehwal is there in the Top 25 ranking in the women`s singles. Nehwal did not move from her eighth position in the list.

Badminton World Federation rankings: PV Sindhu slips to 6th position, Parupalli Kashyap breaks into top 25

<p>Shuttler PV Sindhu crashed out of the China Open on Thursday, losing her second-round match against Thailand's Pornpawee Chochuwong.</p>

<p>Reigning world champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whenever-i-lose-he-is-like-its-okay-well-try-next-time-pv-sindhu-on-coach-pullela-gopichand-245912">Sindhu</a> dominated the first game, winning it 21-12.</p>

<p>However, the shuttler from Thailand bounced back in the next two games and Sindhu had no answer for the gameplay showed by Chochuwong.</p>

<p>Chochuwong won the second and third game 21-13, 21-19 to enter the third round of the tournament.</p>

<p>Sindhu had defeated China's Li Xue Rui 21-18, 21-12 on Wednesday to enter the second round of the China Open.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, the men's doubles pair of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy also bowed out of the tournament after losing to Japan's Takeshi Kamura and Keigo Sonoda.</p>


Shuttler PV Sindhu crashed out of the China Open on Thursday, losing her second-round match against Thailand's Pornpawee Chochuwong. Reigning world champion Sindhu dominated the first game, winning it 21-12.

Shuttler PV Sindhu crashed out of the China Open on Thursday, losing her second-round match against Thailand's Pornpawee Chochuwong. Reigning world champion Sindhu dominated the first game, winning it 21-12. However, the shuttler from Thailand bounced back in the next two games and Sindhu had no answer for the gameplay showed by Chochuwong. Chochuwong won the second and third game 21-13, 21-19 to enter the third round of the tournament. Sindhu had defeated China's Li Xue Rui 21-18, 21-12 on Wednesday to enter the second round of the China Open. Earlier in the day, the men's doubles pair of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy also bowed out of the tournament after losing to Japan's Takeshi Kamura and Keigo Sonoda.

PV Sindhu crashes out of China Open; loses to Thailand's Pornpawee Chochuwong

Head coach Pullela Gopichand and Foreign Coach Kim Ji Hyun were also congratulated by PM Modi

PM Modi felicitates Sindhu at his residence

<p>India's star shuttler PV Sindhu and coach Pullela Gopichand spoke exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. Sindhu admitted that the last 48 hours were so hectic for her that she barely got the time to celebrate her long-awaited win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was a dream! We've been waiting for this win and finally it has happened, so I am very, very happy," she said.</p>

<p>She thanked her mentor and coach Gopichand and said he never gave up on her even when she tasted defeat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Every time I lose, he is like, 'it is okay, next time'," Sindhu said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Gopi, humbled by Sindhu's words, added that he had never imagined that he will go so far in this journey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When I started, I never knew that this will go so far. I just had a dream and the energy to push. God has been kind and with the support of a lot of people we have been able to achieve what we have achieved," he stated. &nbsp;</p>

<p>India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-championships-2019-indias-pv-sindhu-wins-maiden-gold-medal-245549">star shuttler PV Sindhu</a> registered a stellar win at the World Championship 2019 on Sunday.</p>

<p>Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to clinch her maiden BWF World Championships title which she described as "a much-needed victory".</p>

<p>Sindhu on Sunday made the country proud by becoming the first Indian to become a world champion. This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, she holds two silvers and a couple of bronze.</p>


India's star shuttler PV Sindhu and coach Pullela Gopichand spoke exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. Sindhu admitted that the last 48 hours were so hectic for her that she barely got the time to celebrate her long-awaited win.

India's star shuttler PV Sindhu and coach Pullela Gopichand spoke exclusively to WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. Sindhu admitted that the last 48 hours were so hectic for her that she barely got the time to celebrate her long-awaited win. "It was a dream! We've been waiting for this win and finally it has happened, so I am very, very happy," she said. She thanked her mentor and coach Gopichand and said he never gave up on her even when she tasted defeat. "Every time I lose, he is like, 'it is okay, next time'," Sindhu said. Gopi, humbled by Sindhu's words, added that he had never imagined that he will go so far in this journey. "When I started, I never knew that this will go so far. I just had a dream and the energy to push. God has been kind and with the support of a lot of people we have been able to achieve what we have achieved," he stated. India's star shuttler PV Sindhu registered a stellar win at the World Championship 2019 on Sunday. Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to clinch her maiden BWF World Championships title which she described as "a much-needed victory". Sindhu on Sunday made the country proud by becoming the first Indian to become a world champion. This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, she holds two silvers and a couple of bronze.

Whenever I lose, he is like 'it's okay, we'll try next time': PV Sindhu on coach Pullela Gopichand

Indian shuttler PV Sindhu won the BWF World Championships title by defeating Japan's Nozomi Okuhara in straight games by 21-7, 21-7. In an exclusive conversation with WION, PV Sindhu spoke on her historic win. Watch this video to know more.

Exclusive: PV Sindhu speaks to WION on her historic win

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed star shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whenever-i-lose-he-is-like-its-okay-well-try-next-time-pv-sindhu-on-coach-pullela-gopichand-245912">PV Sindhu</a> as 'India's&nbsp;pride' after she returned with the gold medal from the&nbsp;BWF World Championships.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sindu defeated&nbsp;Japan's Nozomi Okuhara 21-7, 21-7 in the finals of the tournament to win the elusive medal on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 24-year-old badminton player brought glory to the nation as she became the first Indian to win gold at BWF World Championships.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India's pride, a champion who has brought home a Gold and lots of glory! Happy to have met @Pvsindhu1. Congratulated her and wished her the very best for her future endeavours," PM Modi tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After her win, Sindhu arrived in India early Tuesday morning and was seen thanking fans for their support and said that she wished to win "many more medals for the country."</p>

<p>Sindhu also met Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju.</p>

<p>The minister presented the shuttler with a cheque of Rs 10 lakhs for winning a gold medal in BWF World Championships.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo talks about Sindhu's win</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Watch: Sindhu's exclusive chat with WION</strong></p>

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<p>This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, two of them silvers and two of them bronze.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed star shuttler PV Sindhu as 'India's pride' after she returned with the gold medal from the BWF World Championships. Sindu defeated Japan's Nozomi Okuhara 21-7, 21-7 in the finals of the tournament to win the elusive medal on Sunday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed star shuttler PV Sindhu as 'India's pride' after she returned with the gold medal from the BWF World Championships. Sindu defeated Japan's Nozomi Okuhara 21-7, 21-7 in the finals of the tournament to win the elusive medal on Sunday. The 24-year-old badminton player brought glory to the nation as she became the first Indian to win gold at BWF World Championships. "India's pride, a champion who has brought home a Gold and lots of glory! Happy to have met @Pvsindhu1. Congratulated her and wished her the very best for her future endeavours," PM Modi tweeted. After her win, Sindhu arrived in India early Tuesday morning and was seen thanking fans for their support and said that she wished to win "many more medals for the country." Sindhu also met Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju. The minister presented the shuttler with a cheque of Rs 10 lakhs for winning a gold medal in BWF World Championships. Watch: WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo talks about Sindhu's win × Watch: Sindhu's exclusive chat with WION × This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, two of them silvers and two of them bronze.

PM Modi meets PV Sindhu, calls her India's pride

Sindhu thanked her mentor and coach Gopichand and said he never gave up on her even when she tasted defeat

PV Sindhu, Gopichand interact with WION after historic win at World Championships

Indian shuttler PV Sindhu won the BWF World Championships title by defeating Japan's Nozomi Okuhara in straight games by 21-7, 21-7

WION Exclusive: In conversation with PV Sindhu on her victory in BWF World Championships

Sindhu says World Championships title is my answer to people who questioned me over and over

Mahesh Bhupathi, Former tennis player speaks on PV Sindhu's historic victory in BWF World Championships

Mahesh Bhupathi on PV Sindhu's historic victory in BWF World Championships

Mahesh Bhupathi, Former tennis player speaks on PV Sindhu's historic victory in BWF World Championships. Listen in!

Mahesh Bhupathi speaks on PV Sindhu's historic victory in BWF World Championships

<p>India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-championships-2019-indias-pv-sindhu-wins-maiden-gold-medal-245549">star shuttler PV Sindhu</a> spoke to WION on her stellar win at the World Championship 2019 on Sunday. Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to clinch her maiden BWF World Championships title which she described as "a much-needed victory".</p>

<p>"I am really happy to win the medal. I had been waiting for this for long. It was a much-needed victory," Sindhu told WION's Digvijay Singh Deo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sindhu said that she had worked very hard for this title. "World Championship is very special, I had tears in my eyes," she said, adding that she dedicates this win to her mother as it was her birthday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sindhu on Sunday made the country proud by becoming the first Indian to become a world champion. This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, she holds two silvers and a couple of bronze.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The stupendously talented <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pvsindhu1</a> makes India proud again!<br />
<br />
Congratulations to her for winning the Gold at the BWF World Championships. The passion and dedication with which she’s pursued badminton is inspiring.<br />
<br />
PV Sindhu’s success will inspire generations of players.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1165612987614400513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>With a powerful start, Sindhu dominated the game as she won four of the first five points, sending the opponent on the backfoot. She was leading 15-2 in the first match for a moment, eventually winning it 21-7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the second game, she won the first two points and further dominated the game. She won the second game 21-7 in 20 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sindhu had defeated China's Chen Yu Fei 21-7, 21-14 to enter the finals on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the second time that Indian shuttlers will be returning with two medals from World Championships (Sai Praneeth and PV Sindhu), previously in 2017, Saina Nehwal had won bronze and PV Sindhu won silver.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/her-success-will-inspire-generations-pm-narendra-modi-hails-pv-sindhu-for-winning-gold-at-bwf-world-championship-245562">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Sunday congratulated Olympic silver medalist PV Sindhu for her feat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The stupendously talented @Pvsindhu1 makes India proud again! Congratulations to her for winning the Gold at the BWF World Championships. The passion and dedication with which she’s pursued badminton is inspiring. PV Sindhu’s success will inspire generations of players," PM Modi tweeted out.&nbsp;</p>


India's star shuttler PV Sindhu spoke to WION on her stellar win at the World Championship 2019 on Sunday. Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to clinch her maiden BWF World Championships title which she described as "a much-needed victory".

India's star shuttler PV Sindhu spoke to WION on her stellar win at the World Championship 2019 on Sunday. Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to clinch her maiden BWF World Championships title which she described as "a much-needed victory". "I am really happy to win the medal. I had been waiting for this for long. It was a much-needed victory," Sindhu told WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. Sindhu said that she had worked very hard for this title. "World Championship is very special, I had tears in my eyes," she said, adding that she dedicates this win to her mother as it was her birthday. Sindhu on Sunday made the country proud by becoming the first Indian to become a world champion. This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, she holds two silvers and a couple of bronze. The stupendously talented @Pvsindhu1 makes India proud again! Congratulations to her for winning the Gold at the BWF World Championships. The passion and dedication with which she’s pursued badminton is inspiring. PV Sindhu’s success will inspire generations of players. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 25, 2019 × With a powerful start, Sindhu dominated the game as she won four of the first five points, sending the opponent on the backfoot. She was leading 15-2 in the first match for a moment, eventually winning it 21-7. In the second game, she won the first two points and further dominated the game. She won the second game 21-7 in 20 minutes. Sindhu had defeated China's Chen Yu Fei 21-7, 21-14 to enter the finals on Saturday. This is the second time that Indian shuttlers will be returning with two medals from World Championships (Sai Praneeth and PV Sindhu), previously in 2017, Saina Nehwal had won bronze and PV Sindhu won silver. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated Olympic silver medalist PV Sindhu for her feat. "The stupendously talented @Pvsindhu1 makes India proud again! Congratulations to her for winning the Gold at the BWF World Championships. The passion and dedication with which she’s pursued badminton is inspiring. PV Sindhu’s success will inspire generations of players," PM Modi tweeted out.

I dedicate this win to my mother, was waiting for it for long: PV Sindhu speaks to WION

PV Sindhu becomes first Indian to win BWF World Championships

<p>India's star shuttler PV Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to win her maiden BWF World Championships title on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>World number four Okuhara had no answers to the aggressive approach from the Indian shuttler in the contest that lasted for just 36 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sindhu is also the first Indian to become a world champion. This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, two of them silvers and two of them bronze.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch video:</strong></p>

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<p>With a powerful start, Sindhu dominated the game as she won four of the first five points, sending the opponent on the backfoot. She was leading 15-2 in the first match for a moment, eventually winning it 21-7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the second game, she won the first two points and further dominated the game. She won the second game 21-7 in 20 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sindhu had defeated China's Chen Yu Fei 21-7, 21-14 to enter the finals&nbsp;on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the second time that Indian shuttlers will be returning with two medals from World Championships (Sai Praneeth and PV Sindhu), previously in 2017, Saina Nehwal had won bronze and PV Sindhu won silver.&nbsp;</p>


India's star shuttler PV Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to win her maiden BWF World Championships title on Sunday. World number four Okuhara had no answers to the aggressive approach from the Indian shuttler in the contest that lasted for just 36 minutes.

India's star shuttler PV Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to win her maiden BWF World Championships title on Sunday. World number four Okuhara had no answers to the aggressive approach from the Indian shuttler in the contest that lasted for just 36 minutes. Sindhu is also the first Indian to become a world champion. This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, two of them silvers and two of them bronze. Watch video: × With a powerful start, Sindhu dominated the game as she won four of the first five points, sending the opponent on the backfoot. She was leading 15-2 in the first match for a moment, eventually winning it 21-7. In the second game, she won the first two points and further dominated the game. She won the second game 21-7 in 20 minutes. Sindhu had defeated China's Chen Yu Fei 21-7, 21-14 to enter the finals on Saturday. This is the second time that Indian shuttlers will be returning with two medals from World Championships (Sai Praneeth and PV Sindhu), previously in 2017, Saina Nehwal had won bronze and PV Sindhu won silver.

World Championships 2019: PV Sindhu wins India's maiden gold medal

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