Indefatigable Sindhu at last breaks final jinx
Indian defeats Okuhara at World Tour Finals after seven runners-up spots
Arelieved P. V Sindhu let out a joyous scream when she finally laid her hands on a gold medal by claiming the World Tour Finals with a win over 2017 world champion Nozomi Okuhara yesterday.
With the straight-game victory, coming after seven consecutive finals losses, Sindhu became the first Indian to achieve the feat.
Playing her third successive season-ending finale, Sindhu, who had lost in the summit clash to another Japanese, Akane Yamaguchi, to settle for a silver in the last edition, prevailed 2119, 21-17 in a match that lasted an hour and two minutes.
This was her 14th career title but the year’s first. Prior to this in 2018, she has won silver at the World Championships, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, Thailand Open and India Open.
Dubbed a bridesmaid after falling short of gold on a number of occasions, Sindhu finally broke her jinx, screamed and sunk to her knees.
Saina Nehwal had reached the finals of 2011 World Super Series Finals, while Jwala Gutta and V Diju finished runners up at the 2009 edition.
Sindhu, an Olympic and World Championship silver medallist, was composed and held her nerve at the crucial moments to stay a step ahead of the Japanese through the match.
I’m really proud, the year has ended on a beautiful note,” said Sindhu.
“People have been asking me the same question, I think the question won’t come again asking why I always lose in the final.
“It was good that people were asking me about losing so many finals because I had to ask myself why I was losing. “Finally I got the answer. “I got emotional because it’s my first gold in this tournament. I didn’t have anything in my mind.
“I was on my knees. I wanted this win very much.”
Sindhu engaged in long rallies with Okuhara and managed to stay ahead. Despite stiff challenge from her opponent she earned three match points and converted them immediately to seal the issue in her favour.