PV Sindhu Reveals Virat Kohli's Advice That Sparked Her Stunning Japan Open 2026 Comeback
- By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
- Jul 22, 2026
- 97
India's Badminton superstar and two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu has revealed that an inspiring conversation with cricket legend Virat Kohli played a decisive role in reviving her career after one of the most difficult periods of her professional journey.
Fresh from winning the Japan Open Super 750 title, Sindhu shared that Kohli's guidance helped her overcome injuries, mental exhaustion and a prolonged trophy drought. The victory marked her first major BWF World Tour title in nearly two years and made her the first Indian to win the prestigious Japan Open women's singles crown.
Virat Kohli's Advice Changed Everything
Speaking about her comeback, Sindhu disclosed that she contacted Virat Kohli while struggling with recurring injuries, disappointing performances and declining confidence.
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According to the badminton star, Kohli replied within minutes and met her the following day. Her husband, Venkat Datta Sai, was also present during the meeting.
Although Sindhu chose to keep the complete discussion private, she revealed the key message that transformed her outlook.
Instead of constantly chasing medals and championships, Kohli advised her to rediscover the happiness of playing badminton itself.
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That simple change in perspective completely altered her approach to training and competition.
A New Mindset Produced Better Results
Sindhu now begins her training sessions at 5:30 every morning driven by passion rather than pressure.
She admitted that there were several occasions when injuries shook her confidence. However, she never stopped believing she could return to the highest level.
Calling the Japan Open trophy far more meaningful than just another title, Sindhu described it as proof that her career still has many chapters left.
Scientific Training Powered the Comeback
Following a ligament injury, doctors advised complete rehabilitation before she resumed competition.
Her husband then accompanied her to Atlanta in the United States, where she focused on mental recovery while spending time with family.
After the Paris Olympics, Sindhu's support staff adopted a data-driven performance programme. Multiple tracking devices monitored her fitness, recovery, sleep, heart rate and training load to maximise efficiency.
She also reduced around 3.5 kilograms while maintaining muscle strength, significantly improving movement and endurance on court.
Coach Irwansyah Refined Every Aspect of Her Game
Coach Irwansyah worked extensively on Sindhu's net play, attacking patterns, patience during rallies and reduction of unforced errors.
The improvements became evident throughout the Japan Open campaign.
Sindhu defeated Japanese favourite Akane Yamaguchi in straight games to lift the title after producing one of her finest performances in recent years. Earlier, she also overcame former world champion Chen Yufei in the semifinals, underlining her return to elite form.
Eyes Fixed on World Championships and Olympic Gold
Despite her memorable triumph, Sindhu has already shifted her attention to upcoming challenges, including the China Open and the BWF World Championships.
According to Venkat Datta Sai, the team's biggest objective remains unchanged—to help Sindhu fulfil her dream of winning an Olympic gold medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Why This Victory Matters
The Japan Open title represents much more than ending a long wait for silverware. It showcases Sindhu's resilience, mental toughness and willingness to reinvent herself after setbacks. With renewed confidence, scientific preparation and a stronger mindset, the Indian badminton icon appears ready to challenge for the sport's biggest honours once again.
FAQ
Q. Why did PV Sindhu credit Virat Kohli for her comeback?
Sindhu said Virat Kohli encouraged her to focus on enjoying badminton instead of constantly chasing trophies, helping her regain confidence.
Q. Which title did PV Sindhu win in 2026?
She won the Japan Open Super 750 women's singles title, becoming the first Indian to achieve the feat.
Q. What are PV Sindhu's next major tournaments?
Her immediate targets are the China Open and the BWF World Championships before building towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
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