Paris, Oct. 23 -- Indian shuttler Ashmita Chaliha said her victory over world No. 2 Akane Yamaguchi at the Badminton French Open 2026 meant a lot to her after coming through a difficult phase, describing the biggest win of her career as a confidence-booster.

The 27-year-old Chaliha stunned three-time world champion Yamaguchi 21-19, 21-18 in 37 minutes in the women's singles second round on Thursday to reach the quarter-finals of the BWF Super 750 tournament.

"Honestly, it feels unreal. I'm still trying to sink it all in! Beating a player like Akane, who has achieved so much in this sport, is a really special feeling. Having come through a difficult phase this win means a lot to me. It gives me confidence and reminds me that all the hard...