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PV Sindhu picked up her second major trophy this past Sunday when she won the Kumpoo Macau Open. She was the top seed there and went all the way to take home the grand prize. It was an event that did not have the strongest field with Sindhu herself probably being the biggest name in the fray, but that should not take anything away from what was a morale-boosting win, especially having faced some tough competition on the way.
It was also a welcome relief for Indian badminton as a whole which has largely endured a disappointing year, barring Sindhu’s two achievements – the bronze medal at the World Championships in China and the title in Macau.
Here are some excerpts from an interview that Sindhu had with TOI upon returning to India:
On the win…
It’s always good to win a title. I was not doing well after the World Championships. Despite getting a good draw in events in Denmark, I was not able to live up to expectations. So I took a break, withdrew from the China Open and worked hard. I played well in Hong Kong, though I lost to Ratchanok (Intanon) in the first round and in Macau I won the title. Winning a tournament at the end of the year boosts your confidence a lot. Overall, it’s been an excellent year for me. I won two GP Golds and I am determined to do well next year.
On having not beaten only world champion Ratchanok Intanon and Indian compatriot Saina Nehwal amongst the elite players…
I am happy with the way I played against Ratchanok in Hong Kong last month. It was a close match. I think next time I can beat her.
On improvements during the year…
There were many. Last few months I worked on my drops and strokes. I struggled a bit with my drops, but now I am feeling comfortable.
On Gopichand’s assessment that she requires another 12 to 18 months to be an elite player…
Of course I agree. He knows better than me. Every year I kept improving. In 2012, I beat a few top players and this year I won three titles. I am still learning and always feel that there is a long way to go.
On any fears before stepping onto a badminton court…
Nothing like that. I don’t fear anyone, I just concentrate on giving my best.
On the player that she wants to beat the most…
I want to beat everyone I’m playing against.
Target for next year…
I will be playing several big tournaments next year and try to win as many as possible.
