Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu after she scripted history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Japan Open, defeating home favourite and world No. 3 Akane Yamaguchi in the women’s singles final of the BWF Super 750 tournament in Tokyo.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister hailed Sindhu’s achievement as a landmark moment for Indian badminton.
“A historic feat for Indian badminton! Congratulations to PV Sindhu for emerging victorious in the Japan Open 2026. Her determination and exceptional skills were on full display throughout the tournament. The fact that she is the first Indian to win this title makes this achievement even more special. It will inspire countless young athletes across the country to play and shine,” PM Modi said.
Responding to the Prime Minister’s message, Sindhu expressed her gratitude, saying PM Modi’s encouragement had always been a source of inspiration.
In a post on X, she said, “Thank you so much, Hon’ble Prime Minister Sir. Your wishes mean the world to me. I will never forget sharing that ice cream with you after Tokyo, that brief conversation in your office, and the many occasions before and after when I had the privilege of meeting you and being inspired by you. Those are memories I will always cherish.”
She also praised the Prime Minister’s dedication to public service, saying she had witnessed his relentless work ethic during their meetings. “You truly embody what hard work, dedication and service to the nation mean. Thank you for your unwavering support for Indian sport. Wishing you many, many years of good health and strength, Sir,” she added.
Sindhu ended a title drought of more than two years with a commanding 21-17, 21-17 victory over four-time Japan Open champion Yamaguchi at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. The triumph marked her maiden Japan Open title, her first Super 750 crown, and made her the first Indian shuttler to lift the prestigious trophy.
The victory also ended her seven-year wait for a Super 750-or-above title and was her first BWF World Tour title since winning the Syed Modi International in December 2024. It was also Sindhu’s biggest title since capturing the BWF World Championships crown in 2019.
