Bengaluru, March 3, 2026 : Two-time Olympic medallist P. V. Sindhu has safely returned to Bengaluru after being stranded in Dubai due to the closure of airspace in the Gulf region. The star shuttler subsequently pulled out of the prestigious All England Open Badminton Championships in Birmingham.
Taking to X, Sindhu confirmed her safe return.
“Back home in Bangalore and safe. The last few days have been intense and uncertain, but I’m truly grateful to be back to my house.”
She expressed gratitude to Dubai authorities, airport staff, immigration officials, and ground teams for their support during the difficult situation.
“The empathy and professionalism meant more than words can say. For now, it’s time to rest, reset, and figure out the next steps.”
Stranded Amid Regional Tensions
Sindhu was travelling to Birmingham via Dubai when flight operations were suspended following escalating tensions in the Gulf region. She had earlier described the situation as “extremely tense and scary,” revealing that an explosion occurred near her place of stay.
Her team, including Indonesian coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama, was also caught in the disruption.
The former world champion had earlier remarked that moments like these highlight how fragile normal life can be.
With her safe return, Sindhu is expected to reassess her tournament schedule in the coming weeks.
