India’s two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu fought hard in the China Open 2026 pre-quarter final clash but World No.4 Chen Yufei staged an astonishing comeback to win 16-21, 22-20, 21-18 in Changzhou, on July 23. The Round of 16 clash lasted one hour and 29 minutes. Sindhu had four match points but Yufei managed to turn it around and beat a spirited Sindhu.
This was Sindhu’s first tournament since the historic title win at Japan Open 2026. After Sindhu's defeat, legendary India coach Vimal Kumar chose to look at the positives. He underlined why the traditional 21-point system should stay as it makes for great contests.
"This was a masterclass in attacking and defensive badminton, with exceptional rallies, tactical brilliance and fighting spirit from both players."
"Matches of this quality are a reminder of why the traditional 21-point scoring system has produced some of the greatest contests in our sport. We are unlikely to witness many encounters like this once the new scoring system comes into effect next year," said Kumar to India Today.
How Sindhu missed the quarterfinal berth
Sindhu did not get off an ideal start as Yufei took a 5-2 lead. Sindhu used the crossdrop shots but Yufei had done her homework. She took an 11-6 lead. Sindhu managed to make a comeback, winning seven straight points and with it, the first game.
Sindhu continued to ride the momentum and made it 7-3 in the second game. Sindhu took the game to 20-16 with four match points. The 31-year-old struggled physically and Yufei got the crowd's support as she staged an impressive fightback. Yufei forced the third game with a 22-20 win.
The third game did not lack any intensity from Sindhu. She took an 11-8 lead. Yufei did not give up either and the long rallies continued. As the clash neared an hour and a half, Sindhu lost the third game 21-18.
Vimal also lauded Sindhu for showing 'tremendous character' in the match. He feels that luck played a part in the second game as well. He also credited Yufei for not faltering under pressure and advancing to the quarterfinals.