India’s rising badminton stars stepped up in style as India women’s badminton team defeated Ukraine women’s badminton team 4-1 in their Uber Cup 2026 group-stage encounter in Denmark on Saturday. The victory was powered by impressive performances from the country’s next generation, underlining depth beyond established names.
Leading the charge was Tanvi Sharma, who battled through a three-game contest to overcome Yevheniia Kantemyr 21-12, 17-21, 21-10. After comfortably taking the opening game, Tanvi faced resistance in the second before regaining control in the decider to seal an important point for India.
Unnati Hooda followed with a nail-biting win over Polina Buhrova. The closely fought match saw momentum swing both ways before Unnati held her nerve to clinch it 21-19, 22-20 in a tense 46-minute duel.
India tightened its grip on the tie when Devika Sihag delivered a composed performance, defeating Mariia Stoliarenko 23-21, 21-13. Her victory gave India an unassailable 3-0 lead, effectively sealing the tie.
Ukraine managed to pull one back in the doubles, as the experienced pairing of Buhrova and Kantemyr outplayed India’s Kavipriya Selvam and Simran Singhi 21-11, 21-17. The Ukrainian duo dominated proceedings, showcasing their higher ranking and coordination.
However, India finished strongly with veteran P. V. Sindhu returning to the court in doubles action. Partnering Tanisha Crasto, Sindhu ensured there was no late comeback from Ukraine. The Indian pair defeated Stoliarenko and Sofiaa Lavrova 21-18, 21-15 in just 32 minutes — the quickest match of the tie.
Sindhu’s appearance in doubles also allowed her some rest from singles duties ahead of India’s crucial upcoming clash against China, a fixture expected to play a decisive role in the group standings.
The win marked a strong response from India after their narrow 2-3 defeat to Denmark in the opening tie, where Sindhu had won her singles match. This time, the spotlight shifted to the younger players, who rose to the occasion and delivered under pressure.
With momentum on their side, India will now look to carry this confidence into their next challenge, as the blend of youth and experience continues to shape their Uber Cup campaign.
