Indian ace PV Sindhu endured a painful exit from the China Open 2026, losing to home favourite Chen Yufei 16‑21, 22‑20, 21‑18 in the women’s singles Round of 16.
Despite winning the opening game and holding four match points in the second, Sindhu was unable to convert her advantage as Chen staged a stunning comeback in front of a packed crowd.
Sindhu began aggressively, dictating rallies with sharp net play and powerful smashes to take the first game 21‑16. She looked poised for victory in the second, earning four match points, but Chen’s resilience shone through. Backed by the home crowd, the World No. 4 saved all four match points and edged the game 22‑20.
The decider saw momentum shift completely. Sindhu, visibly exhausted and carrying a minor niggle, struggled to maintain intensity. Unforced errors crept in, allowing Chen to capitalise and close out the contest 21‑18 after one hour and 29 minutes.
While the defeat was heartbreaking, Sindhu’s aggressive start and tactical sharpness remain positives. She will now turn her focus to upcoming BWF World Tour tournaments, aiming to sharpen her finishing under pressure.
