Devika Sihag Creates History at Thailand Masters 2026
In a moment of triumph that resonated across the badminton world, 20-year-old Devika Sihag lifted the Thailand Masters 2026 trophy in Bangkok, becoming the youngest Indian women's singles shuttler to achieve this remarkable feat. This victory places her alongside legends Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu as only the third Indian woman to win a prestigious BWF World Tour Super 300 title.
A Journey of Determination and Focus
"Before going to the tournament, I had made up my mind that I'll give my best in every match," Devika revealed in an exclusive interview. "From the beginning, I was playing really good. After winning against Supanida Katethong, the number one seed, in the quarterfinals, I felt confident about my chances in the tournament."
Standing at 172 cm, Devika represents the new generation of Indian badminton players who combine physical advantages with technical precision. Training at the Centre of Badminton Excellence in Bengaluru, formerly known as the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy, she has been working diligently to transform her height into a strategic asset rather than just a physical characteristic.
Learning from the Best
"After training with Sindhu didi, I can clearly see how much difference we have in our speeds," Devika explained. "She is playing at the highest level the sport can offer. Now I know that I have to include a considerable amount of pace in my game to compete against higher-ranked players."
Her recent collaboration with Olympic medalist PV Sindhu and renowned Indonesian coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama has provided invaluable insights into the modern game's demands. "Coach Irwansyah always tells me that my strokes are good, but I need to work more on my agility and speed. That would really enhance my game," she shared.
From Panchkula to International Recognition
Devika's journey began far from elite training facilities in her hometown of Panchkula, where she spent four formative years training at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium under coach Rohit Mandhana. Her parents, Ajit Sihag (a lawyer) and her mother (a teacher), initially introduced their children to badminton for fitness purposes, never imagining it would lead to international success.
The family's move to Bengaluru in 2017 marked a turning point in her career. At the prestigious academy, she trained under Umendra Rana, absorbing the discipline required to compete at international levels while balancing her academic pursuits.
Balancing Academics and Athletics
Away from the court, Devika is pursuing a BBA in sports management from Chitkara University, demonstrating remarkable balance between her athletic and academic commitments. This dual focus has helped her maintain perspective amid growing expectations.
"Of course, now people will expect more from me," she acknowledged. "I hope that I can do better in Super 500 and even Super 750 tournaments. I'll improve on the mistakes that I am making. When I go back to Bangalore, I'll try my best to get my game even better."
The Fitness Imperative
Recognizing modern badminton's physical demands, Devika has made fitness her primary focus. "Badminton nowadays is all about fitness; everyone has good strokes. So, we've to be very strong with our fitness levels plus strength wise too we've to be at our peak," she emphasized.
"I am working on my running sessions as well as my strength sessions. But, particularly, for me, I need more strength work. I need more strength in my lower body. I think I'm getting better at my game day by day, so I now need to improve my strength and conditioning," she added with determination.
Family Support and Future Aspirations
At home, celebrations have been tempered with practical advice. "My parents are really happy and they just told me that I should work harder. I should not be satisfied with this title," Devika revealed. "My father keeps telling me about the mistakes I make, what aspects I should work on."
Looking ahead, Devika has set her sights on the ultimate prizes in international badminton. "The ultimate goal is always the Olympic medal. I hope I can qualify for big tournaments like the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, Olympics, and then win medals for the country as well," she declared, outlining her ambitious roadmap for the coming years.
Devika Sihag: Quick Facts
- Born: April 18, 2005
- Age: 20
- Height: 172 cm
- Hometown: Panchkula
- Highest Ranking: 48
- Academy: Centre of Badminton Excellence, Bengaluru
- Coaches: Irwansyah Adi Pratama, Umendra Rana, Rohit Mandhana
This historic victory at the Thailand Masters 2026 represents not just a personal achievement for Devika Sihag but another significant milestone for Indian badminton, signaling the emergence of a new generation ready to carry forward the nation's rich shuttle legacy.
