KUALA LUMPUR: World No. 14. Sivasangari fell short at the Tournament of Champions (TOC) in New York, losing to Sabrina Sobhy in the second round on Friday.
In her second competition of the season, Sivasangari, who received a first-round bye, lost 11-9, 11-7, 11-4 to the world No. 15 American in a match lasting 37 minutes.
Compatriot Rachel Arnold, who defeated Hong Kong's Tsz-Wing Tong in the first round, lost 11-1, 11-4, 11-6 to second seed Nouran Gohar of Egypt in 23 minutes.
On Thursday, Ng Eain Yow went down 11-6, 11-8, 11-3 in 35 minutes to third seed Paul Coll of New Zealand in the men's second round.
National coach Ajaz Azmat said Sivasangari was not at her best physically and mentally.
"Sivasangari played well in the first game but couldn't secure the crucial points to win it.
"She then put too much pressure on herself and lost the subsequent games.
"It is a minor hiccup. She just needs to build her confidence and mental strength.
"I believe she will come back stronger in the next tournament."
Sivasangari will next play at the Cincinnati Cup, which begins on Jan 31.