Kristin Kubba Prepares To Challenge PV Sindhu At Paris 2024

Estonian badminton player Kristin Kubba is gearing up for her maiden clash against PV Sindhu at the Paris Olympics 2024, driven by the belief that she has nothing to lose. Ranked 74th in the world, Kubba is set to face Sindhu, a two-time Indian Olympic medallist and former world No. 1, on Wednesday. The match is part of Group M, where Kubba also competes alongside Maldives’ FN Abdul Razzaq. Sindhu has already secured a win over Abdul Razzaq, while Kubba has yet to start her campaign in the competition. Kubba, who is making her second Olympic appearance in Paris, had long anticipated the opportunity to compete against Sindhu. Reflecting on her wish to face a top player, Kubba revealed, “Before the draw, the coach asked who I would like to play with from the top ten in the world. I said Sindhu.” The 25-year-old Estonian views this match as a significant chance to showcase her skills, as she has trained intensely for moments like these.

Sindhu, who won silver in 2016 and bronze in 2020, is aiming for a third Olympic medal, which would make her the most decorated Indian athlete in Olympic history. Ranked 26th in the world, Sindhu demonstrated her dominance by easily defeating Abdul Razzaq in her opening group encounter. Despite Sindhu’s formidable reputation, Kubba is undaunted. She acknowledges the challenge posed by Sindhu’s height and powerful, aggressive game but feels well-prepared. Kubba has focused her training on countering Sindhu’s aggressive style, emphasizing defensive readiness for sharp angles and borderline shots. “Sindhu is known for her attacking and aggressive game. She is definitely taller and hits with sharper angles,” Kubba noted. Her strategy involves leveraging her strengths, such as her ability to handle difficult shots and initiate counter-attacks, aiming to turn Sindhu’s powerful plays to her advantage. Kubba’s approach reflects her determination to make the most of this high-profile matchup.