Can PV Sindhu Make History? India’s Biggest Badminton Stars Ready For World Championships

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu will headline India’s challenge as the BWF World Championships return to the country after 17 years, with the Indian star eyeing a historic sixth medal at the prestigious tournament.

Sindhu has already won five World Championships medals, two bronze, two silver and a gold in 2019. A semifinal appearance in New Delhi would guarantee her another medal and make her the first player in the tournament’s history to win six.

Only China’s Lin Dan and Zhao Yunlei have also won five medals at the World Championships.

The ninth seed enters the tournament in a confident mood after winning the Japan Open Super 750 last month, becoming the first Indian to claim the prestigious title. She begins against Ireland’s 141st-ranked Sophia Nobel and has a favourable route towards the semifinals.

India’s other major hopes include men’s doubles stars Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, who are targeting another podium finish after bronze medals in 2022 and 2025. The fifth seeds have received a first-round bye, but Satwik’s recurring shoulder problem remains a concern. Their recent Singapore Open triumph offers encouragement.

In men’s singles, Lakshya Sen will seek a strong run after an inconsistent period, while 21-year-old Ayush Shetty faces defending champion and world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi in a difficult opening-round clash.

Youngster Unnati Hooda will make her World Championships debut in women’s singles, while Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand spearhead the women’s doubles challenge.

The tournament marks India’s return to the global badminton spotlight after Hyderabad hosted the Worlds in 2009. With established stars chasing medals and youngsters seeking breakthroughs, New Delhi is set for an exciting badminton showcase.