PV Sindhu storms into Asian Games quarterfinals with dominant straight-game win
Synopsis
PV Sindhu didn't just win on Saturday — she won twice, and without dropping a game. After a nervy first-game save against Chinese Taipei's Chiu Pin-chian, she turned on the power against Japan's Miyazaki with a 21-9, 21-13 demolition. For a player who left Hangzhou empty-handed, the quarterfinal berth carries real redemption weight.
Key Takeaways
PV Sindhu beat Japan's Tomoka Miyazaki 21-9, 21-13 to reach the Asian Games women's singles quarterfinals on 26 September .
Sindhu also defeated Chinese Taipei's Chiu Pin-chian 21-19, 21-14 in the second round earlier the same day.
She has not dropped a single game across both matches in Ichinomiya .
Sindhu was eliminated at the quarterfinal stage in the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games without a medal.
The two-time Asian Games medallist is now chasing a third podium finish at the Games.
PV Sindhu powered her way into the women's singles quarterfinals at the Asian Games on 26 September, dismantling Japan's Tomoka Miyazaki 21-9, 21-13 in the round of 16 at the Ichinomiya City Municipal Gymnasium in Ichinomiya. The Indian shuttler's composed, attack-heavy game gave Miyazaki little opportunity to establish a foothold at any stage of the contest.
First Game: Sindhu in Total Control
Sindhu seized command of the opening game immediately, deploying her superior court coverage and experience to keep Miyazaki under relentless pressure. She raced to a 13-7 lead and never looked back, wrapping up the opener 21-9 with minimal fuss. It was a statement of intent from the two-time Asian Games medallist.
Second Game: Composed Finish
Miyazaki attempted to shift the tempo in the second game, leaning on extended rallies to test Sindhu's stamina. However, the Indian star remained unflustered, leading 11-6 at the midgame interval. After the changeover, Miyazaki struggled to maintain any sustained pressure as Sindhu pushed ahead to 17-11 and sealed the match 21-13, booking her quarterfinal berth in straight games.
Earlier Round: Hard-Fought Win Over Chiu Pin-chian
Sindhu's 26 September schedule had already included a demanding second-round clash against Chinese Taipei's Chiu Pin-chian, whom she defeated 21-19, 21-14. The first game was notably tighter — Sindhu trailed 10-11 at the interval, saved two game points under pressure, and converted at the third opportunity. She settled more decisively in the second game, taking an 11-7 lead at the break before closing out comfortably.
Redemption Run: Learning from Hangzhou
The Olympic double medallist — a bronze at Rio 2016 and silver at Tokyo 2020 — is competing with a point to prove at this edition of the Asian Games. At the Hangzhou 2022 Games, Sindhu was knocked out at the quarterfinal stage without a medal. Her progression this time around carries a redemptive edge, with the Indian camp quietly hopeful of a podium finish. Notably, she enters the quarterfinals having not dropped a single game across her two outings on Saturday.
What Comes Next
Sindhu will next compete in the quarterfinals as she targets a third Asian Games medal. Her draw and next opponent were not immediately confirmed, but her form through two commanding wins in a single day signals she will be among the favourites to reach the semifinals. All eyes will be on whether the Indian star can go the distance and end her Asian Games medal drought from Hangzhou.
Point of View
On her best days, she remains a level above most of the Asian circuit. The more important subplot, however, is the Hangzhou ghost — she was among India's biggest disappointments there, and this tournament is partly about reclaiming that narrative. The quarterfinal draw will be the real test; if she avoids the top seeds before the semis, a medal is a realistic prospect rather than a hope.
NationPress
27 Sept 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Did PV Sindhu win at the Asian Games today?
Yes, PV Sindhu won twice on 26 September at the Asian Games in Ichinomiya. She defeated Japan's Tomoka Miyazaki 21-9, 21-13 in the round of 16 and earlier beat Chinese Taipei's Chiu Pin-chian 21-19, 21-14 in the second round, advancing to the quarterfinals without dropping a game.
What is PV Sindhu's record at the Asian Games?
PV Sindhu is a two-time Asian Games medallist heading into this tournament. She was, however, eliminated at the quarterfinal stage at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games without winning a medal, making this edition a redemption opportunity.
Who is Tomoka Miyazaki?
Tomoka Miyazaki is a Japanese women's singles badminton player who faced Sindhu in the round of 16 at the Asian Games on 26 September. She was unable to sustain any consistent pressure against Sindhu and lost 21-9, 21-13 in straight games.
Where is the badminton event being held at the Asian Games?
The badminton competition is being held at the Ichinomiya City Municipal Gymnasium in Ichinomiya, Japan. Sindhu played both her matches there on Saturday, 26 September.
What does PV Sindhu need to win an Asian Games medal?
Sindhu needs to reach at least the semifinals to guarantee a medal at the Asian Games. She has cleared the round of 16 and will next compete in the quarterfinals; winning that match will put her on the podium.
