India’s badminton ace P.V. Sindhu added another feather to her illustrious cap by winning the gold medal in the women’s singles event at the 2024 Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China. Sindhu’s victory, which came after a grueling final against Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi, has been celebrated as one of the highlights of India’s performance at the Games.
Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medalist and World Champion, entered the tournament as the top seed and lived up to expectations with a series of commanding performances. The final, however, was far from straightforward. Yamaguchi, known for her tenacity and speed on the court, pushed Sindhu to the limit in a match that lasted over an hour.
The first game was a close affair, with both players exchanging powerful smashes and engaging in long rallies. Sindhu edged out Yamaguchi 22-20, showcasing her ability to stay calm under pressure. The second game saw Yamaguchi fighting back, taking the game 21-18 to level the match and set up a thrilling decider.
In the final game, Sindhu displayed her trademark aggression and mental fortitude, pulling ahead with a series of well-placed shots that left Yamaguchi scrambling. She eventually closed out the match 21-16, collapsing to the floor in tears as the realization of her achievement sank in.
Speaking to reporters after her win, Sindhu expressed her joy and relief. “This gold medal means everything to me. The Asian Games is one of the toughest tournaments, and to come out on top against a player like Akane is incredibly special. I’ve worked hard for this, and I’m glad to have made my country proud.”
Sindhu’s gold medal is a significant boost for India’s medal tally at the Asian Games and reinforces her status as one of the country’s greatest-ever athletes. As the nation celebrates her triumph, Sindhu’s focus will now shift to the upcoming World Championships, where she will aim to add another title to her growing list of accolades.