Devika Sihag Training with PV Sindhu: How Thailand Masters Winner Is Perfecting Her Power Smash
Devika Sihag, the 20-year-old rising star in Indian badminton, is on a mission to emulate the legendary power smash of PV Sindhu. As the winner of the Thailand Masters, Devika is training alongside Sindhu in Bengaluru, focusing on refining her technique and building the strength needed for that signature stroke.
Aspiration to Master the Sindhu Smash
Sindhu's decisive and destructive power smash from the back court, with its blazing and unretrievable force, has been a hallmark of Indian badminton for over a decade. For Devika, this stroke is not just an inspiration but a goal she strives to achieve every day. "Smash is good and I have good angles on it, but at that next level, I need more power," Devika explains from Azerbaijan, where she is competing in an International Challenge.
Training Regimen and Challenges
Training with Sindhu involves rigorous sessions, including arduous 400-meter laps that test endurance and agility. Devika, who stands near 5'9", acknowledges the advantages and challenges of her height. "We lack in agility – I mean it’s not as good as those with shorter legs, and need work. But we cover the court easily and can hit steep, down shots and smashes much better," she says.
Her earliest coach, Umendra Rana, played a crucial role in bridging the gap with the Sindhu smash by helping her shorten her backswing for a whippier action. Now, under the guidance of coaches like Indonesian Irwansyah and Indian mentor Vimal Sir, Devika is working on speed and court movement to accentuate her strokes.
Overcoming Early Struggles and Setting Goals
Recalling her move from Panchkula to Bangalore in 2017, Devika notes initial struggles with defense and lack of gym training. "Back then we didn’t know we needed a gym. So we would just run a bit, and do light strength training," she adds. At the PPBA, scientific training kicked in, incorporating nutritionists, trainers, supplements, and recovery protocols.
With her first title secured, international coaches are now dissecting her game, pointing out areas like prolonging rallies and not asserting attacks. Devika is focused on improving these aspects, with a realistic target of reaching the Top 25 in 2026, up from her current World No. 48 ranking.
Facing Tough Competition and Travel Challenges
Devika faces a surfeit of Indian challengers, making domestic matches tricky. "It’s tougher playing Indians, and I have played three sets against most. Isharani Baruah has good speed and strong defense. But even Tanvi, Rakshitha are tough," she admits.
Increased travel for tournaments like the Swiss Open and Orleans Masters brings challenges such as jet lag and unfamiliar food. "Last 2 days have been hectic, and I slept the whole day yesterday due to time difference. The food is very different but I carry dry fruit Laddus my mother packs for me," Devika shares, highlighting the support from coaches in managing recovery.
Inspirations and Future Aspirations
Devika looks up to players like Tai Tzu-ying and An Se-young, incorporating deception into her net game and aiming for the stability of An Se-young as a longer-term goal. "My toughest sessions are those 400m runs," she laughs, acknowledging that these will be the bedrock of toughening up to face the Top 20 players.
Training with Sindhu has placed Devika in the vicinity of the expected pace at the highest level, but she knows that wins come with tall expectations. As she continues to perfect her power smash and agility, Devika Sihag is poised to make her mark on the international badminton scene.
