Sreeja Akula – ‘I didn’t focus on rankings, was well prepared’ after beating Paris Olympics bronze medallist Hina Hayata

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The Japanese world no 11 had arrived at WTT Contender Lagos 2025, with title ambitions but those were interrupted by Sreeja, seeded ninth, in straight games. (AP File)

Hyderabad paddler Sreeja Akula caused yet another upset on the international circuit, in pursuit of defending her Lagos WTT Contender title, when she beat Paris bronze medallist Hina Hayata 11-7, 11-8, 11-3 in the very first round she played.

The Japanese world no 11 had arrived at WTT Contender Lagos 2025, with title ambitions but those were interrupted by Sreeja, seeded ninth, in straight games.

The Indian 26-year-old is ranked No 57, and there was a ranking gap of 46 positions in the ITTF World markers with Hayata the red-hot favourite heading into Thursday’s showdown, but was in for a difficult day at the office, according to the WTT website.

‘Known for her shrewd acumen and incredible defensive prowess, it was always going to be a demanding challenge to break down Akula. And Hayata would fall short on this occasion as Akula remained steadfast to close out a stunning 3-0 victory over the World No.11,’ WTT wrote.

In the other half of the draw, No.2 seed Honoka Hashimoto was off to an easier start dropping just six points across three games in her clash with qualifier Kabirat Ayoola (11-1, 11-3, 11-2).

But Sreeja’s donination of Hayata was from the outset as she sealed a spot in the round of 16, hoping to defend her crown.

Sreeja had become the first Indian to win a WTT Contender in a fine showing in June of 2024, and announced herself as a winner to be taken note of at Nigeria. She returned to the event, and immediately caused a stir.

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The electric upset lit up the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall inside the Teslim Balogun Stadium, according to Premium Times Nigeria. “I was well-prepared for the match, even though it was my first time playing against her,” Akula told Premium Times, post-match. “She’s the top-ranked player, but I didn’t focus on rankings. I just concentrated on my game, and I’m happy with how I played.”

The paper further wrote: ‘It wasn’t just the win; it was the manner Akula showed remarkable composure and shot selection, barely allowing Hayata a foothold. It was a performance laced with both tactical maturity and emotional calm.
For Akula, Lagos has fast become more than a tournament stop; it’s now a proven fortress. “Being the defending champion gives me a lot of confidence. I won both the women’s singles and doubles titles last year. Lagos has been a good hunting ground for me, and I’m really happy to be back. I just want to play my best and enjoy the tournament,” she added to PT Nigeria.

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