Star Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal crashed out of the China Open Super 1000 tournament after suffering a first-round defeat to Thailand's Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the women's singles on Wednesday.
The London Olympics bronze medallist lost 10-21 17-21 at the hands of the World No. 19 Ongbamrungphan in a match that lasted for 45 minutes. It was the former world number one's second successive defeat to the Thai player.
The 29-year-old Saina has struggled for form following her recovery from injuries.
Saina started her season with a win at the Indonesia Open but has failed to reach another final on the BWF circuit for the rest of the season.
Reigning world champion P.V. Sindhu will start her campaign later in the day with a match against former Olympic champion Li Xuerui in the opening round.
