PV Sindhu has opened up about how a conversation with Virat Kohli helped her overcome one of the toughest stages of her career after a serious injury in 2025, ultimately fueling a remarkable comeback that culminated in the former Japan Open title.The two-time Olympic medalist tore his hamstring in September 2025, forcing him to cut his season short and focus on rehabilitation. Under the supervision of renowned sports orthopedic specialist Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Sindhu rested for three months followed by a major rehabilitation program.During this difficult time, Sindhu, along with her husband Venkata Datta Sai, approached Kohli for guidance. The former Indian captain responded immediately, and the three met the next day.Sharing an emotional moment with X while re-interviewing her husband’s interview with The Indian Express, Sindhu revealed how the meeting changed her life.“One thing I will always be grateful for, is Virat bhai. I came to him at one of the lowest points of my career. Injuries were piling up, the results were not coming, and I just needed someone who understood. He answered within a few minutes, and we met the next day. What we talked about will always be between us. Some conversations change the way you see things. That was one of them,” Sindhu wrote on X.
Datta Sai reveals Kohli’s influence
In an interview with The Indian Express, Sindhu’s husband Venkata Datta Sai explained how Kohli’s words continued to inspire her throughout her recovery. “We had to rebuild his happiness, and Virat’s voice kept ringing in my head. At Exos Sports Performance in Atlanta, he was trained by three excellent trainers, Wayne, Tim and Rayan,” recalled Datta.
A historic win at the Japan Open completes the Comeback
The comeback culminated on July 19, 2026, when Sindhu made history by winning the women’s singles title at the Japan Open, becoming the first Indian player on any track to lift the prestigious crown in the tournament’s 43-year history. Ranked World No. 12 entering the tournament, the 31-year-old had a successful final at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, beating favorite and World No. 3 Akane Yamaguchi 21-17, 21-17