China Open: Saina Nehwal crashes out after 1st round defeat
Changzhou, Sept 18 (UNI): India's ace shuttler and London Olympic bronze medallist, Saina Nehwal was knocked out of China Open Super 1000 tournament after suffering first-round defeat against Thailand's Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the women's singles, here on Wednesday.
Nehwal lost by 10-21, 17-21 against World No 19 Ongbamrungphan in a match that lasted over 44 minutes. It was Nehal's second successive defeat to the Thai player.
In recent times, Nehwal has been struggling with her form and fitness after following recovery from injuries.
Former world No 1 had started her season with a win at Indonesia Open but has failed to reach another final on the BWF circuit for the rest of the season.
Later in the day, reigning world champion PV Sindhu will start her campaign with a match against former Olympic champion Li Xuerui in the opening round.
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