In a clash of two former World Champions, badminton fans witnessed a moment that transcended the scoreboard. Whether you’re a fan of PV Sindhu, Nozomi Okuhara, or the sport itself, what unfolded after their Round of 32 match on Tuesday at the Indonesia Open (Super 1000) brought a smile to the faces of badminton lovers around the world.
PV Sindhu and Nozomi Okuhara met on court after more than two years. This was their 20th meeting, and with this win, Sindhu now leads 11–9 in head-to-head.
The rivalry began in 2010 during the Asian Junior Mixed Team Championship. Since then, they have played many thrilling matches over the years, including the famous 2016 Rio Olympics semi-final, the gripping 2017 World Championship final where Okuhara won, and the 2019 World Championship final where Sindhu defeated Okuhara in straight sets to become World Champion.
Speaking after the match, Sindhu reflected on their long-time rivalry:
“Yeah, I think we played after a really long time, and of course, I’m glad that the rivalry is still alive. We’ve been playing with each other for more than a decade, if I’m not wrong. It’s always good to play against her.”
The 2019 World Champion PV Sindhu faced off against 2017 World Champion Nozomi Okuhara on Tuesday in what turned out to be a thrilling, tightly contested three-game match. Sindhu emerged victorious in this classic encounter, winning 22–20, 21–23, 21–15 in a 79-minute-long match.
The first game saw both players neck and neck, exchanging points all the way to 20–20. Sindhu played well and edged past Okuhara, taking the opening game 22–20.
At the start of the second game, the Indian star had a chance to seal the match in straight games, but Okuhara, known for her grit, fought back strongly to snatch the game 23–21, forcing Sindhu into a decider.
In the deciding game, Sindhu took control, closing the match 21–15. But the real story wasn’t just about the win or the loss — it was about a long-time rivalry on court, friendship, and a camaraderie between the two that defined an era of badminton.
“It’s never easy,” Sindhu admitted to BWF media. “But I feel I could have finished it off in two sets. I should have been a bit more cautious. I had two match points and a mid-court smash when I got the lift, I played it safe.”
After the final point, both players shared a handshake and a moment of mutual respect before leaving the court. But the emotions didn’t end there. Shortly after the match, PV Sindhu took to social media to post a heartfelt tribute to her long-time rival.
“14 years. 20 matches. From my longest to the shortest World Championship finals – always with her. We’ve shared wins, losses, and a rivalry only we understand. Keep fighting, Nozomi. The court’s never quite the same without you.”
14 years. 20 matches. From my longest to the shortest World Championship finals — always with her. We’ve shared wins, losses, and a rivalry only we understand ❤️😂 Keep fighting, Nozomi. The court’s never quite the same without you 💪❤️ pic.twitter.com/1Ql8ZA8JON
— Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) June 3, 2025
Okuhara responded by quoting Sindhu’s post on X:
“Thank you for the special and tough match today. There is always drama in my matches with you. It may not be the same as before, but we understand each other. Let’s do our best so we can meet on the court again.”
Thank you doing the special and tough match today.There is always drama in my matches with you. It may not be the same as before, but we understand each other. Let’s do our best so that we can meet on the court again🫶 https://t.co/yrk7E7slxP
— Okuhara Nozomi 奥原 希望 バドミントン選手 (@nozomi_o11) June 3, 2025
A few hours later, Okuhara shared a few photos on X with the caption, “Forever rivals and friends.”
To which Sindhu replied, “Forever my friend.”
This heartfelt exchange between two legends reminded the world that sport is not only about competition — it’s also about respect. The Sindhu–Okuhara story is what sport is all about. They may fight like foes on court, but walk off as friends always.
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