Sindhu Stumbles Again as Lakshya, Satwik-Chirag Progress at Japan Open 2025

India’s PV Sindhu continued her rough patch in 2025 with yet another first-round exit, this time at the Japan Open Super 750 tournament held in Tokyo. Facing world No.14 Sim Yu Jin of South Korea, Sindhu struggled with unforced errors and inconsistent shot judgment throughout the match, ultimately going down 21-15, 21-14.

What made the defeat even more frustrating was that Sindhu had never lost to Sim in their previous three meetings. However, on this occasion, it was her own errors that cost her dearly. From misjudging shuttle lengths to wide smashes and lost challenges, Sindhu failed to find her rhythm. Commentators noted the high number of unforced errors, which reflected a lack of control and decision-making under pressure. Despite moments of promise—like catching up from 3-9 in Game 1 or leveling at 11-11 in Game 2—Sindhu’s inconsistency proved costly.

Her early exit raises further concerns about her form, even as she maintains she is fit and motivated. The flashes of her legendary grit weren’t enough to make a difference in this encounter.

Lakshya Sen Impresses in Straight Sets

While Sindhu exited, Lakshya Sen delivered a confident performance against world No.24 Wang Zheng Xing of China. Starting aggressively, Sen took the first game 21-11 with excellent front-court movement and precise half smashes. Though Wang found some momentum in Game 2, Lakshya held his lead and closed the match with a clean down-the-line smash. He now prepares for a clash with Kodai Naraoka, against whom he has a 2-4 head-to-head record.

Satwik-Chirag Battle Through

In men’s doubles, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, India’s top pair, overcame a tricky challenge from Korea’s Kang Min Hyuk and Ki Dong Ju. Trailing 8-11 in the first game, SatChi staged a comeback to take it 21-18. The second game was smoother, as they dominated with fast exchanges, strong net control, and a commanding 27-shot rally that sealed momentum in their favor. They advanced with a 21-18, 21-13 win, signaling strong form heading into Round 2.

As India’s top shuttlers push ahead, the early departure of PV Sindhu remains a point of concern. But Lakshya and SatChi’s composed performances offer hope in Tokyo.