Indian Star PV Sindhu Ready for High-Voltage Semifinal Clash

Badminton fans across India and Odisha are gearing up for a thrilling weekend as the PV Sindhu Malaysia Open Semifinal approaches. The Indian star is set to face China’s number one, Wang Zhiyi, in what promises to be a battle of nerves and skill at the first Super 1000 event of 2026.

Sindhu’s Resurgence and Form

Sindhu enters this match with a refreshing sense of freedom. Currently ranked World No. 18, she has shown glimpses of her vintage best at the Axiata Arena. Her path to the semifinals included a convincing win over Tomoka Miyazaki and a walkover against Akane Yamaguchi, who retired due to injury while trailing.

Unlike previous seasons where she relied heavily on sheer shoulder power, the 30-year-old has adapted her game. She now displays a lighter footwork and a "whippy" wrist action, allowing her to strike the shuttle high without exhausting her energy. This tactical shift, combined with a decisive, fuss-free power game, makes her a dangerous opponent. She is playing with what the younger generation calls "chill"—completely unburdened by the fear of losing.

The Pressure on Wang Zhiyi

In contrast, Wang Zhiyi carries the heavy weight of expectation. Despite holding the top spot in Chinese badminton, her recent record is haunted by finals defeats, specifically against World No. 1 An Se-young. Wang lost seven out of eight finals last year, drawing sharp criticism from local media.

Adding to her stress is the memory of the World Championships in Paris, where Sindhu knocked her out in the Round of 16. Wang is a technically gifted player—fast, well-rounded, and capable of exploiting defensive gaps. However, the mental pressure of maintaining her status as China's top contender often weighs her down.

Tactical Battle Ahead

While Sindhu’s height gives her a vertical advantage, Wang stands at 5-ft-7 and is known for her court coverage. The key for Sindhu will be patience and utilizing her deep hits to open up the court. If she can replicate the tactical discipline she showed in Paris, the Indian ace has a strong chance of upsetting the Chinese favorite once again. For Wang, seeing Sindhu across the net is akin to a recurring nightmare. For Sindhu, it is another opportunity to prove that she remains a giant slayer on the world stage.