It was a case of so near yet so far but a tearful Pusarla V. Sindhu vowed to find the best version of herself again after exiting Singapore Open 2023 today.

Pusarla’s reign as the women’s singles champion ended following a hard-fought 18-21 21-19 21-17 loss to world No.1 Akane Yamaguchi.

During the post-match interview afterwards, Pusarla, who is seeking match fitness after being sidelined by injury, broke down.

“Progress wise, it’s been fine. But today was anybody’s game. Overall, I’m happy I’m back on court after the injury because sometimes … ,” she said before pausing to wipe her tears.

After regaining composure, the first words uttered were of optimism.

“Sometimes it’s really hard to lose close matches but I’m going to come back stronger,” she promised. “It’s important I go back and learn from my mistakes. It’s an Olympic qualification year so I just want to get back to my best and stay injury free.”

Pusarla was forced to miss the rest of the season after picking up a hairline fracture on her left ankle at last year’s Commonwealth Games. The four-month break was her longest since 2015.

She returned at the Malaysia Open in January and after a few early defeats, finished Spain Masters runner-up in April and made the Malaysia Masters semifinals two weeks ago.

How close does Pusarla feel to top form?

“Not too far, just need the rhythm back. So far so good.”

Her search for the right rhythm will continue at the year’s third Super 1000 next week, the Indonesia Open, where she starts her campaign against local favourite Gregoria Mariska Tunjung.

→ Results (Day 1)

→ Order of play (Day 2)

WHAT OTHERS SAID:

“Today is also my birthday, I’m very happy I was able to go against the odds and secure this win.” – Yamaguchi, who turned 26

“I didn’t spend a lot of time with my family. I spent a lot of time practicing. The video I posted of my son (on social media) was a little old.” – Zheng Si Wei got straight to work after helping China win TotalEnergies BWF Sudirman Cup Finals 2023

“I’m thankful because it’s been some time since I was as invested and enjoyed a match so much.” – Chou Tien Chen after seeing off Lakshya Sen