KUALA LUMPUR – Former world number one P.V. Sindhu saw her hopes of ending a two-year title drought shattered after a defeat to China’s Wang Zhiyi in the women’s singles final at the Malaysia Masters today.
Despite having secured the title twice before, in 2013 and 2016, Sindhu could not replicate her past success as she struggled against Zhiyi’s resurgence.
After a gruelling 79-minute battle at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil, Zhiyi emerged victorious with a scoreline of 16-21, 21-5, 21-16.
“It’s certainly disappointing. Nonetheless, I need to draw positives from this tournament and match. I’ve noticed significant improvements, which is encouraging,” said Sindhu.
“Every match presents a learning opportunity. Each opponent is unique, offering valuable insights for future encounters.
“I’ll confer with my coach, make necessary adjustments, and return stronger.”
In the women’s doubles, Japan’s Rin Iwanaga and Kie Nakanishi lived up to expectations, securing the title after a hard-fought contest against South Korea’s Shin Seung-chan and Lee Yu-lim.
The Japanese duo prevailed 17-21, 21-19, 21-18 in a thrilling 96-minute encounter.
Meanwhile, in the men’s doubles, Denmark’s Kim Astrup and Anders Skaarup Rasmussen won the final with ease, defeating South Korea’s Na Sung-seung and Jin Yong 21-18, 21-14. – May 26, 2024
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