Australian Open: PV Sindhu dismantles Chen Su Yu to book semi-final berth

Two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu produced one of her most convincing performances of the season to storm into the Australian Open Super 500 women’s singles semi-finals with a commanding victory over Chinese Taipei’s Chen Su Yu on Friday.

The third seed needed just 31 minutes to see off Chen 21-6, 21-9 to book her place in the last four, keeping her hopes of a first title of the year firmly alive.

It is only Sindhu’s second semi-final appearance in eight BWF tournaments this season, a welcome sign for the former world champion after a campaign marked by mixed results.

After going through a competitive all-India pre-quarterfinal against Isharani Baruah, Sindhu looked in complete control from the start against Chen. The Indian dictated the pace of the match with her attacking play and sharp court coverage, denying her opponent any opportunity to level the match.

SINDHU IN COMPLETE CONTROL

The opening game was one-sided, with Sindhu racing into a huge lead and wrapping it up 21-6. Chen struggled to match the Indian’s intensity and repeatedly found herself on the defensive.

There was little change after the break. Sindhu continued to increase the pressure, mixing powerful smashes with precise placement to keep Chen chasing the shuttle. The third seed quickly gained control of the second game, sealing a 21-9 run to complete a comprehensive victory.

The dominant display was in stark contrast to her round of 16 match against Isharani, where she had to fight hard to prevail 22-20, 21-12 in 42 minutes.

With the win, Sindhu moved to within two wins of winning the title and will take confidence from the way she dismantled her quarter-final opponent.

India’s campaign in the women’s singles draw was also boosted by teenager Tanvi Sharma, who advanced to the quarter-finals with a straight-match win over compatriot Malvika Bansoda.

The 17-year-old won 21-13, 21-15 to continue his breakout week in Australia.

Tanvi already caught the eye by upsetting fifth seed Chia Pin-Chian of Chinese Taipei in the previous round and followed that up with another composed performance against Malvica.

The youngster now faces a tough challenge against top seed Akane Yamaguchi of Japan, with progress to the semi-finals on the line.

– The end

Issued by:

Saurabh Kumar

Published on:

12 Jun 2026 10:25 IST