Sindhu proves marriage and injury cannot stop her winning drive [WATCH]

KUALA LUMPUR: Marriage may have changed Indian star P.V. Sindhu's personal life, but it has not softened her competitive edge or reduced her ambition for the biggest stages in badminton.

The former world champion made a composed start to her Malaysia Open campaign with a 21-13, 22-20 win over Taiwan's world No. 31 Sung Shuo Yun in the first round at Axiata Arena on Wednesday.

It was her first competitive outing since the China Masters in September last year, and the result provided calm reassurance after a period interrupted by injury.

"I'm happy to be back and playing again," said world No. 18 Sindhu.

"When you're coming from injury, the first rounds are always tricky. You are still understanding the drift and the shuttle. I'm glad I could give my 100 per cent."

Sindhu, who married Hyderabad-based businessman Venkata Datta Sai in December 2024, said her husband's steady support, together with that of her parents, has helped keep her grounded while she continues to chase major titles.

"I'm very lucky," she said.

"My husband is extremely supportive. He's a tech guy, not an athlete, but he understands the sport and encourages me all the time.

My parents were sportspeople themselves. With that kind of support, what more do I need?"

Sindhu, who had also won silver at the Rio 2016 Olympics, has endured a stop-start spell in recent seasons, including a turf-toe injury that sidelined her late last year.

The setbacks have been frustrating, yet they have not shaken her belief that more success is still possible.

"Injuries are part of the game," she said.

"Sometimes you stop, take a break, and come back again. Just when you feel strong, something happens.

"But I still know there is a lot in me. It's not about proving anything to anybody.

"It is more about self-satisfaction, preparing smartly, and knowing I can still do it. I just take it one step at a time."

Retirement, she added, is not on her mind.

"No. Definitely not," she said with a smile.

"I want to play for the next couple of years. I just need to stay injury-free and keep giving my best."

This season carries extra significance.

The World Championship will be held in New Delhi in August, where Sindhu will attempt to add to the title she first won in 2019 and return a medal to home fans.

"This year is important," she said.

"The Worlds are in India, and I hope the crowd supports me. I hope I can give something back.

"We also have the Asian Games and other big tournaments. I want to win as many titles as I can."