India’s badminton star PV Sindhu has credited a heartfelt conversation with cricket icon Virat Kohli for helping her rediscover confidence and motivation during one of the toughest phases of her career. The advice proved to be a turning point as Sindhu ended her title drought by creating history at the Japan Open 2026, becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious tournament.
Sindhu admitted that after nearly two years without a major title, she struggled with self-doubt and mounting expectations. Looking for guidance from an athlete who had experienced similar challenges, she reached out to Virat Kohli. Their discussion, followed by a meeting in Bengaluru, helped her adopt a fresh perspective on handling pressure and enjoying the game again.
According to Sindhu, Kohli shared his own experience of overcoming difficult phases in international cricket. Rather than focusing on statistics or milestones, he advised her to reconnect with the joy of competing and trust the process instead of worrying about results. The message resonated deeply with the two-time Olympic medallist and became a key part of her comeback journey.
Following that interaction, Sindhu and her support team reworked her training programme, fitness routine and match preparation. She concentrated on improving consistency, physical conditioning and mental resilience, allowing her to gradually regain confidence on the court. The changes paid off during the Japan Open, where she displayed aggressive yet composed badminton throughout the tournament.
In the final, Sindhu defeated Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi in straight games to capture her maiden Japan Open title. The victory ended her prolonged wait for a major championship and marked her first Super 750 title, reaffirming her position among the world’s elite badminton players. It also served as a major confidence boost ahead of the upcoming BWF World Championships in New Delhi.
Reflecting on her triumph, Sindhu said the victory was about much more than lifting a trophy. It represented months of hard work, persistence and belief during a period when many questioned whether she could return to her best. She expressed gratitude to her coaches, family and support staff for standing by her throughout the rebuilding process.
Kohli’s advice has since attracted widespread attention across the sporting world, with many praising the bond between two of India’s greatest athletes. Fans on social media celebrated the story as an example of how elite sport extends beyond physical preparation, highlighting the importance of mental strength, resilience and mentorship in achieving success.
Sindhu’s historic victory has reignited hopes of another strong campaign at the World Championships. With renewed confidence and momentum on her side, the Olympic medallist now looks to build on her Japan Open success and add more international titles to her illustrious career, inspired by the simple yet powerful advice that helped transform her mindset.
