Sindhu Pulls Out of Badminton Asia Team Championship

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu has withdrawn from the upcoming Badminton Asia Team Championships, dealing a significant setback to India’s medal hopes ahead of the tournament scheduled to begin next week.

Sindhu, a former world champion and one of India’s most dependable badminton stars, recently returned to competitive action after recovering from a foot injury that had sidelined her since October last year. Her absence is expected to weaken the Indian contingent, which was banking on her experience and consistency in the women’s singles category.

According to sources familiar with the development, Sindhu opted out of the event due to a minor physical concern. “Sindhu has withdrawn from the Asia Team Championships due to a slight niggle,” a source told PTI.

The decision comes as a precautionary measure to avoid aggravating the issue, especially with a packed international calendar ahead. Sindhu’s withdrawal leaves the team management with limited time to reorganise the squad before the continental team event begins.