PV Sindhu storms into Asian Games 2026 badminton quarterfinals
PV Sindhu cruises into the quarterfinals at the Asian Games 2026 after a dominant win, while Ayush Shetty exits after a tough battle.
India's badminton star PV Sindhu has secured her spot in the women's singles quarterfinals at the Asian Games 2026. Displaying sheer dominance, she dismantled Japan's Tomoka Miyazaki in straight games during her match at the Ichinomiya City Municipal Gymnasium on Saturday.
Sindhu's Dominant Display in Aichi-Nagoya
The Indian shuttler was in sublime form, overwhelming Miyazaki with a clinical 21-9, 21-13 victory. The match lasted just 41 minutes, during which Sindhu rarely let her opponent find any rhythm.
The opening game was a masterclass in control, as Sindhu raced to a 21-9 finish in just 18 minutes. She maintained this high intensity into the second game, showing great composure to wrap up the contest and ensure her passage into the final eight.
Heartbreak for Ayush Shetty
While Sindhu celebrated her success, the Indian men's singles campaign faced a setback. Ayush Shetty saw his journey come to an end after a grueling quarterfinal battle against Chinese Taipei's Chou Tien-Chen.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions:
- First Game: Shetty struggled to find his footing, losing the opener 16-21.
- Second Game: Showing immense grit, Shetty fought back to claim the second game 21-19, forcing a decider.
- Deciding Game: In a high-pressure final set, Chou Tien-Chen held his nerve to win 21-17.
The 2-1 defeat ended Shetty's run in the tournament, leaving Sindhu as the primary focus for India in the women's singles event.
Golden Double for India in Kabaddi
In other major news from the Asian Games 2026, India celebrated a massive achievement in Kabaddi with a spectacular golden sweep. Both the men's and women's squads emerged victorious in intense finals held at the Tokai Citizen Gymnasium.
The Indian women's team successfully defended their title with a narrow 37-34 win over Iran. Not to be outdone, the men's team staged a brilliant second-half comeback to defeat Iran 40-34, securing a record-breaking ninth Asian Games gold medal in the discipline.