Badminton Upset: 17-Year-Old Unnati Hooda Stuns Idol PV Sindhu at China Open

China Open 2025 witnessed a significant upset as Unnati Hooda, a 17-year-old shuttler, defeated her idol, PV Sindhu, in the pre-quarterfinals of the Super 1000 tournament. This victory marks the biggest win of her burgeoning career and signals the arrival of a promising talent on the international stage.

Unnati Hooda defeated PV Sindhu in China Open (BWF/Badminton Photo)

The young player from Haryana, a long-time admirer of Sindhu's accomplishments, is rapidly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of badminton.

A Dream Come True

Following her momentous victory in Changzhou, Unnati Hooda expressed her surprise and delight. "I didn't come thinking I would win today," she confessed, still catching her breath. However, she did just that, overcoming Sindhu in a thrilling three-game match to advance to the quarter-finals of the China Open Super 1000.

From Fan to Competitor

Unnati's journey began in Chamaria village, Haryana, where she idolized PV Sindhu, emulating her powerful smashes while watching her matches on television. In 2022, her dream of meeting her idol came true when she was selected for the Uber Cup squad at just 14 years old. Although she didn't participate in any matches, traveling alongside Sindhu was an "inspiring experience" that fueled her ambition.

That experience ignited a fire within her, transforming her admiration into a fierce determination to compete at the highest level. On Thursday in Changzhou, that ambition materialized as she faced and defeated her idol on the court.