Punjab Newsline,Sports:
Indian shuttler declared champion after Malaysia’s Goh Jin Wei retires from the final of the $250,000 tournament
India’s rising badminton star Devika Sihag delivered a memorable performance at the Thailand Masters badminton tournament, winning her maiden BWF Super 300 title and marking a major milestone in her career. The prestigious tournament, which carried a total prize money of USD 250,000, concluded with Devika being declared the champion after her final opponent, Malaysia’s Goh Jin Wei, retired midway through the match.
In the final, Devika looked confident and composed right from the start. Displaying aggressive shot-making, quick footwork and solid defence, the young Indian shuttler put early pressure on the experienced Malaysian player. As the match progressed, Goh Jin Wei struggled with physical discomfort and eventually decided to withdraw from the contest. Following her retirement, Devika Sihag was officially crowned the Thailand Masters 2026 champion.
This title win is particularly special as it is Devika’s first Super 300 crown on the BWF World Tour, underlining her rapid rise in international badminton. Throughout the tournament, she impressed with consistent performances, defeating several strong and higher-ranked opponents on her way to the final. Her calm approach in crucial moments and ability to control long rallies stood out as key aspects of her success.
Devika’s triumph at the Thailand Masters is being seen as a breakthrough moment for the young shuttler. It not only adds a significant title to her resume but also boosts her confidence ahead of upcoming international events. Coaches and experts believe that this victory could play a crucial role in shaping her future on the world stage.
With this historic win, Devika Sihag has emerged as a promising new face of Indian badminton. Her Super 300 title at the Thailand Masters reflects her hard work, discipline and growing maturity as a player, offering a glimpse of a bright future for both her career and Indian badminton as a whole.