In the ongoing Tokyo Olympics, experienced badminton player PV Sindhu shuttled her way through to the semi-final and now stands one win away from confirming medal. After having a series of lukewarm days for its country, the Indian contingent has had a jubilant day today so far, with debutant boxer Lovlina Borgohain defeating her opponent to secure India’s second medal in this year’s Olympics early in the day.
Details
On July 30, ace badminton player PV Sindhu scripted history by becoming the first ever badminton player to reach the Olympic semi-finals two times in a row. The World Championship gold medalist had earlier reached the semi-finals in the Rio Olympics and after today’s victory, made her way through to this year’s Olympics. With her feat, she has overcome the record of her peer Saina Nehwal who was noted for making it through to two quarter finals and one semi-final in Olympics representing India.
26-year-old Shuttle Queen took on the equally talented Akane Yamaguchi. Her opponent was 4th seeded in the tournament and was the clear favourite owing to the home advantage. However, Sindhu held her nerves in the close encounter and took away the victory with 21-13, 22-20 to now reach the semi-final of the badminton events of the Tokyo Olympics.
#TokyoOlympics | Badminton, Women's Singles, Quarterfinal: PV Sindhu beats Japan's Akane Yamaguchi 21-13, 22-20 to move into semifinals
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— ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2021
Also Read: Tokyo Olympics: PV Sindhu Through to Pre-Quarterfinals, Deepika Kumari Progresses to Next Round
Set 1 – Sindhu Shows Intent and Grit
Being the 6th seed, Sindhu was seen in a relatively unfavorable position. However, she shone bright and strong during the first game which went on for as long as 23 minutes. Her opponent Yamaguchi was started off with the proceedings well and etched a lead in the first few minutes. Sindhu in turn returned well and reduced the gap 5-6 in the first game. As the game progressed, Sindhu looked more comfortable and was at a healthy 11-7 lead. But her opponent too got some points thanks to unforced errors and Sindhu continued leading 15-11.
By the end, it was Sindhu’s game to take and she only conceded two more points to bag the game 21-13.
Also Read: Tokyo Olympics: Lovlina Borgohain Confirms Second Medal for India, Punches Way Through to Semi Final
Set 2- The Nailbiter for Indian Fans
The second game was a nailbiter, to say the least. The game went on close to one hour and there were times when it looked like Akane Yamaguchi was going to script a comeback. Smashes worked well for Sindhu and she started off well with an early lead in the second game.
By the time the game went into the second interval, Sindhu was leading well and strong with a score of 11-6. However, then the game started slipping away from her when she was dominating Akane with 14-8.
Sindhu’s Lead Shortens, Opponent Makes Comeback
Her opponent came strong and won consecutive points to shorten the lead to 14-11. At 15-14, the audience witnessed a long rally which placed Akane at a nice 1-point deficit. The next few minutes looked like it was Akane’s game to bag with score turning to 16-18 in favour of Akane.
Game Goes till Dues
The second game went till dues and no player was willing to loosen the grip. However, it was Sindhu who managed to inch one point deeper into the finish line and bagged the match point along the game.
Where PV Sindhu Stands in Tokyo Olympics Now?
With her phenomenal performance, Sindhu once again reminded sports enthusiast why she’s India’s undisputed badminton queen. She was on her defensive best and when it mattered the most, she took the game away from her opponent.
Her next game will be the semi-final of the women’s badminton event and will be played on Saturday. If she goes on to win the semis, she will be securing another medal for her country.
