PV Sindhu Adds Former World No.1 Shuttler To Coaching Staff As She Eyes Strong Comeback With Arctic Open
As PV Sindhu eyes a strong comeback to the badminton arena with the Arctic Open in October, she has added the former world no. 1 ranked shuttler from South Korea, Lee Hyun Il, to her coaching staff.
Star India shuttler PV Sindhu has added South Korean badminton legend Lee Hyun Il as her consulting coach on an interim basis bolstering her coaching setup ahead of her potential return to badminton action. This move follows the recent appointment of Anup Sridhar, also on an interim basis. Both are slated to remain part of Sindhu’s coaching team until December 2024 and then a final decision regarding her permanent coaching setup will be taken. Sindhu is expected to make her competitive comeback at the Arctic Open in Vantaa, Finland (8-13 October).
Two-time Olympic medallist, Sindhu, earlier roped in Sridhar, who has also coached the likes of Lakshya Sen as she aims a strong comeback to the badminton arena after a missed opportunity for a historic third medal at the Paris Olympics 2024. She was defeated by China’s He Bingjiao in the pre-quarterfinals of the Paris Games.
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Sindhu & Hyun Il Were Teammates At PBL 2006
Hyun Il, a former world No. 1 and Sindhu's teammate during the Premier Badminton League (PBL), is a 2006 world championships bronze medallist in singles and has two Asian Games team gold medals in 2002 and 2014. He is expected to bring vast international experience to Sindhu’s assistance.
Sindhu expressed her excitement ahead of working with Anup and Hyun Il. She stated that she remains impressed with Anup’s understanding of the game. She also hailed Hyun Il's ‘meticulous’ preparation and experience.
“I’m thrilled to have Anup and Lee joining my team during this crucial period. Anup's strategic approach and understanding of Indian badminton have always impressed me, and I look forward to collaborating closely with him. It’s an honour to have Lee, with his meticulous preparation and legendary experience. I can’t wait to learn from him in the coming months,” Sindhu stated in a release.
Expressing enthusiasm about joining Sindhu’s team, Hyun Il said, “Working with PV Sindhu was an easy decision. Our previous collaboration in the PBL showcased her fierce determination and exceptional talent. I am excited to contribute to her growth and success in the upcoming tournaments.”