Returning to the pinnacle of international badminton requires more than just physical stamina; It demands unshakable mental flexibility. two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu This grit was recently exemplified by ending a 19-month title drought to capture the prestigious Japan Open 2026 women’s singles title, a victory rooted in the unexpected guidance of Indian cricket legends. Virat Kohli.
Facing a serious setback after a torn toe ligament forced her to undergo three months of mandatory rehabilitation at the end of 2025, Sindhu found herself struggling with form, fitness and self-doubt. Seeking clarity, she reached out to Kohli, seeking perspective from a veteran who had faced a similar elite level of scrutiny and high-pressure career downfalls.
PV Sindhu credits Virat Kohli’s advice for her comeback at Japan Open
Reflecting on her journey after her historic win in Tokyo, where she became the first Indian shuttler to win the Japan Open title, Sindhu expressed her deep gratitude for Kohli’s quick support during her most vulnerable phase. Her husband also joined her during the important conversation. Venkat Dutt SaiBecause both of them sought guidance from the former Indian cricket captain.
Taking to social media to acknowledge the impact of their meeting, Sindhu shared how Kohli’s quick response provided an immediate lifeline.
“However, one thing I will always be grateful for is Virat Bhai, I reached out to him at one of the lowest points of my career. The injuries were piling up, the results weren’t coming and I just needed someone who understood. He replied within a few minutes and we met the very next daySindhu told The Indian Express.
While Sindhu decided to keep the exact details of their discussion private, she emphasized that Kohli’s insight fundamentally changed her outlook on performing under pressure, helping her recover from injury and deal with the dark times of competitive drought.
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Restoring Trust and Rediscovering Happiness on the Court
The path to victory was not easy for the 31-year-old champion. Having not secured a title since his victory at the Syed Modi International in December 2024, a foot injury in September 2025 threatened to permanently derail his momentum. However, the new perspective gained from his conversation with Kohli allowed him to shift his focus from mounting pressure to pure execution.
“What we talked about will always remain with us.. But I will always be grateful that when I needed someone, he was there. He didn’t say much, but every word stayed with Dutta and me. Some conversations change the way you see things. he was one of them“He added.
That transitional mindset was on full display during her impressive performance at the Japan Open, where her aggressive court coverage and tactical balance signaled a full return to elite form. Now carrying that momentum forward into the China Open Super 1000 in Changzhou, Sindhu once again stands as a major contender, backed by a fresh mindset and the knowledge shared between India’s two iconic sporting giants.
