India, Aug. 18 -- Badminton has become as much a mental game as it is physical, said reigning European women's singles champion Kirsty Gilmour as she compared the modern playing style to a game of chess.

She said badminton has evolved over the years to become a sport in which mental fortitude plays as big a role as physical tenacity.

"There is a man-to-man match happening and there is also a chess game happening at the same time. Just trying to stretch one area and open up another area. I am really working on the mental side of my game along with physical side, which has become crucial," the world number 35 Scottish shuttler said.

Gilmour crashed out of the World Championships after losing to fifth seed Han Yue of China 22-20 13-21 13-...