Saina Nehwal Wins the Swiss Open Grand Prix

Saina Nehwal ended her title drought by winning the Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold title in Basel at the expense of former world No. 1 Shixian Wang on Sunday. 

The Hyderabad girl's last international title was at the same event (March 20, 2011) and by making a successful title defence, Saina has reasons to feel happy in the run-up to theLondon Olympics, especially for the way she got the better of two Chinese stars - Xin (F) Liu (quarters) and Wang - here. 

"I am really thrilled to win a title again. I feel good now and am a lot more confident. I was desperate for this victory. I needed one major title to get back my rhythm and beating a player who was world No. 1 just two months back is very satisfying. It will put me back on track and this major victory ahead of Olympics will help me a lot," said Saina. 

The Indian star, who celebrated her 22nd birthday on Saturday, trounced Wang 21-19, 21-16 in 48 minutes to complement her 21-16, 21-18 semi-final win over Minatsu Mitani of Japan late on Saturday night. 

In the final, Saina faced stiff resistance from Shixian in the first game. But by sticking to basics and playing an all-round game, Saina looked in ominous touch all through the match. Her balanced approach - Saina had 11 net winners and 11 smash winners - forced the Chinese girl to alter her game-plan. 

Aware that the former All England champion is a sharp mover, Saina went for the kill whenever she sensed the slightest chance. Up 5-0, Saina made it 11-3. 

But Asian Games gold medallist Wang fought back and even led the Indian (17-16). Saina's three-point burst clinched the first game. 

Rattled by Saina's dominance, Wang started the second game on a strong note. She engaged the Indian in long rallies, slowed down the game and led 11-7 at the break. 

But having done it in the first game, Saina raised her game when it mattered. She drew level at 13-13, bagged four consecutive points at 15-15 and wrapped up the match conceding just one more point to her opponent.