After appointing Anup Sridhar as interim coach, Indian badminton star PV Sindhu has further strengthened her coaching team by adding former South Korean badminton great Lee Yun Il as a consultant coach.
The strategic move comes ahead of Sindhu’s much-anticipated return to competitive action at the Finland Open and Denmark Open in October 2024.
Coach Agus Dwi Santoso has decided to hire a new coaching staff following the termination of his contract with the Sports Authority of India.
Recognizing the need to streamline her traveling team, Sindhu sought a coach who would actively engage with her and contribute to her day-to-day experience. Therefore, the current coaching arrangement, with Anup Sridhar and Lee Hyun-il, is a temporary arrangement until December 2024.
A former World No. 1 and Sindhu’s teammate in the Premier Badminton League (PBL), Lee brings extensive international experience and a reputation for diligent preparation.
His inclusion alongside Sridhar creates a dynamic coaching duo that combines experience, tactical precision and deep knowledge of the sport. Both coaches will be instrumental in her preparation as she begins her post-Olympic campaign and sharpens her game for the upcoming European circuit.
“I am very happy that Anup and Lee Hyun-il have joined my team at this crucial time,” Sindhu said of the development. “I have always been impressed by Anup’s understanding of Indian badminton and his strategic approach, and I look forward to working closely with him.
It is an honor to have Lee with his great show and legendary experience. I always respect his focus, and I can’t wait to learn from him over the next few months,” she added.
This turnaround marks a pivotal moment in Sindhu’s journey as she builds on her performance after the Paris 2024 Olympics. An interim coaching arrangement will support her at this stage, with a permanent coaching decision expected in December 2024.