PV Sindhu Strengthens Coaching Team with Lee Hyun-il Addition

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu has appointed former South Korean legend Lee Hyun-il as a consulting coach, joining interim coach Anup Sridhar. This move precedes her anticipated return to competition in October 2024. The temporary coaching team, including Vidhi Chowdary and strength and conditioning support, aims to boost Sindhu's performance post-Paris 2024 Olympics.

Indian badminton sensation PV Sindhu has bolstered her coaching team with the appointment of former South Korean badminton legend Lee Hyun-il as a consulting coach. This development comes after the inclusion of Anup Sridhar as interim coach, preparing for Sindhu's competitive return at the Finland Open and Denmark Open in October 2024.

The decision to enhance her coaching structure follows the conclusion of Coach Agus Dwi Santoso's contract with the Sports Authority of India (SAI). Sindhu is in search of a coach who can spar with her and contribute significantly to her daily training. The current coaching team, featuring Sridhar and Lee Hyun-il, will serve until December 2024. Lee Hyun-il, a former World No. 1 and Sindhu's teammate during the Premier Badminton League (PBL), brings extensive international experience and meticulous preparation skills. His addition, alongside Sridhar, creates a formidable coaching lineup, combining experience, tactical expertise, and in-depth knowledge of the sport, essential for preparing Sindhu for the European circuit as she begins her post-Olympic campaign.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new coaching team, Sindhu said, 'I'm thrilled to have Anup and Lee Hyun-il joining my team at this crucial time. Anup's understanding of Indian badminton and his strategic approach have always impressed me. Having Lee, with his legendary experience and meticulous preparation, is an honor. I cannot wait to learn from him in the coming months.' Lee Hyun-il also shared his excitement, stating, 'Working with PV Sindhu was an easy decision. Our partnership in the PBL showcased her fierce determination and exceptional talent. I am excited to contribute to her growth and success in the upcoming tournaments.'

This coaching reshuffle marks a significant phase in Sindhu's journey as she builds upon her performance post-Paris 2024 Olympics, with a permanent coaching decision expected by December 2024. Sindhu expressed her gratitude towards former Coach Agus Dwi Santoso for his pivotal role during her Olympic preparations: 'I truly appreciate Coach Agus for his dedication in getting me ready for the Olympics. His hard work and commitment were crucial in my recovery from injury. He was more than just a coach; he became a friend and guide.'

Vidhi Chowdary will continue as an SAI-deputed coach to ensure smooth transitions during this period. Sindhu also extended her gratitude to her Strength and Conditioning coach, physiotherapists, and support team: 'I want to express my immense gratitude to Vijendra Pal Singh, our Strength and Conditioning coach leading up to the Olympics. His dedication was crucial in getting me competition-ready. I'm thrilled to continue working with Mr. Kshitij Bhoite. A special thanks to Aishwarya Deshpande, Sayali, and Sanchita, my physiotherapists from OGQ under Zeinia Samar's guidance. Their expertise was crucial in my recovery and preparation. I am excited to work with the talented Nisha Rawat now.'

With a renewed focus and an enhanced coaching lineup, PV Sindhu is poised to push her limits and make a strong comeback on the global stage, she concluded.

(With inputs from agencies.)