Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 3: Indian badminton star PV Sindhu has safely returned to India after spending anxious days in Dubai following escalating tensions in the Middle East that disrupted flight operations.
The two-time Olympic medallist confirmed her return through a post on social media platform X, stating that she is back home in Bengaluru after a period marked by uncertainty and travel chaos.
“Back home in Bangalore and safe. The last few days have been intense and uncertain, but I’m truly grateful to be back. A heartfelt thank you to the incredible ground teams, Dubai authorities, airport staff, immigration, and every single person who stepped up and took such good care of us during a very difficult time,” she wrote.
Sindhu, along with her support staff including Indonesian coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama, had been stranded in Dubai after flights were suspended in the wake of US and Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation.
Reports said the shuttler and her team experienced a tense moment when an explosion occurred near the area where they were staying. They were later moved to a safer location as tensions escalated across the Gulf region.
Due to the travel disruption, Sindhu is set to miss the prestigious All England Open Badminton Championships, which begins on Tuesday. She was scheduled to face Thailand’s Supanida Katethong in the opening round of the Super 1000 tournament.
The unexpected developments have impacted preparations for several players, with travel schedules thrown into disarray amid the geopolitical crisis.
For now, Sindhu said she plans to rest and “reset” before deciding on her next competitive appearance.