Japan Open 2026 Highlights: PV Sindhu crowned champion; beats Akane Yamaguchi
Sindhu levels up!
Two straight points after the mid-game interval for Sindhu. The latter is a 36-shot rally, the longest of the match as Yamaguchi now tries to put the shuttle over the head of the tall Sindhu.
The Indian holds on and Yamaguchi eventually errs, eventually putting the shuttle out of bounds at the backline. 11-11.
Yamaguchi LEADS!
PV Sindhu had opened up a 9-6 lead, but Akane Yamaguchi bounces back. A string of five straight points for the Japanese shuttler as she opens up a two-point lead at the mid-game interval.
Sindhu trails 9-11.
Yamaguchi on the rise
Yamaguchi is now slowly getting into the rhythm. A stellar body smash and Sindhu as no answers as Yamaguchi leads 6-5 now. Sindhu returns the favour almost immediately to level up at 6-6.
Yamaguchi draws level
Sindhu goes long before a long rally sees Yamaguchi come out on top after some struggles as the Japanese shuttlers wins her first points of the match.
Good challenge from Sindhu!
A cross court smash from Yamaguchi is called in and Sindhu asks for a review immediately. A very early challenge this from the Indian and she is proven right.
The shuttle landed way out of the sidelines. 3-0 lead for Sindhu.
Sindhu off to a good start!
A lift gone long from Yamaguchi before a good rush to the net from Sindhu, helps the Indian open up a 2-0 lead.
Yamaguchi with the serve
Yamaguchi will get the match underway with the serve. Sindhu playing from the near end of the court.
PV Sindhu wins the toss!
PV Sindhu is on court along with Akane Yamaguchi. The Indian wins the toss and opts for the side.
The usual on-court warmups underway for the players now before we get underway with the women's singles final at the 2026 Japan Open Super 750!
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