PV Sindhu Criticizes Asian Games 2026 Schedule

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu has raised concerns about the demanding schedule at the 2026 Asian Games after her exit from the women’s singles badminton competition.

Sindhu was defeated by China’s Chen Yufei in the quarterfinals. The Indian star said the tournament schedule gave her very little time to recover after playing multiple matches in a short period.

According to Sindhu, she played her second match on Saturday afternoon, while her third match finished after midnight. She then had to return to the court at around 1:30 pm the following day for her quarterfinal.

The short gap between the matches made recovery difficult, Sindhu said. She explained that players need enough time not only for physical recovery but also to prepare mentally for another demanding match.

Sindhu described the scheduling as poorly organised and said the limited recovery time made the challenge even tougher at a major tournament such as the Asian Games.

The Indian badminton player also raised concerns about the technology available during her quarterfinal. Sindhu played on Court 4, where cameras and Hawk-Eye technology were reportedly not available in the same way as on the main show courts.

Without the technology, players had limited options to challenge certain line calls. Sindhu felt that having such technology could have helped provide greater clarity during important points of the match.

Despite the disappointment, Sindhu indicated that she remains committed to badminton. When asked about her plans for future Asian Games appearances, she said she would continue playing as long as her body allows and she remains free from injuries.

She also acknowledged that recovery becomes increasingly important as a player gets older. Sindhu said she would need to be more selective about the tournaments she enters and give greater attention to managing her fitness and recovery.

For Sindhu, her motivation continues to come from her love for badminton. Despite the major achievements she has already recorded in her career, she said her passion for the sport continues to keep her motivated.

The Indian star’s comments highlight the physical and mental demands faced by athletes competing in tightly packed international tournaments. For experienced players like Sindhu, balancing competition, recovery and long-term fitness can become an important part of maintaining a successful career.