Stories
Sindhu Slams "Poorly Organized" Asian Games Schedule After Grueling 24-Hour Marathon
- •PV Sindhu criticized the Asian Games badminton scheduling, citing it was "not really well organised" after playing three singles matches within 24 hours.
- •Sindhu's second-round match on Saturday afternoon was followed by her third-round match ending after midnight, and her quarterfinal match on Sunday afternoon.
- •The two-time Olympic medallist emphasized that recovery is crucial, stating that physical performance suffers even with mental preparation when the schedule is so demanding.
- •Sindhu also expressed disappointment over the absence of hawk-eye technology on Court 4, where she played, leading to unchallengeable line calls in her crucial quarterfinal match.
- •Looking ahead, Sindhu stated she will continue playing as long as she remains injury-free and maintains her passion for the sport, focusing on strategic tournament selection.
Key Questions Answered
PV Sindhu criticized the scheduling because she had to play three singles matches within a span of 24 hours, leaving her with insufficient recovery time. Her second match on Saturday ended after midnight, and she had to return on Sunday morning for her quarterfinal match.
During her quarterfinal match against China's Chen Yufei, Sindhu was unable to challenge close line calls because hawk-eye cameras were only installed on show courts 1 and 2, while she was playing on Court 4. She felt that several crucial shots that were on the line went against her without any provision for a player review.
Sindhu kept her options open regarding the 2030 Asian Games, stating that she would play if she still has it in her and can stay injury-free. Emphasizing that she is no longer 20, she noted the importance of taking it one year at a time, picking and choosing tournaments, and prioritizing body care.
