BWF and India to sort out issues ahead of World Championships

KUALA LUMPUR: The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has pledged to upgrade the facilities at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex for the World Championships in August after players and officials voiced their concerns over organisational issues at the ongoing India Open in New Delhi.

The India Open caught headlines for the wrong reasons, with bird droppings affecting matches apart from general cleanliness, hygiene and air pollution issues.

BWF, in a statement today, said it has been talking with players and teams to review the conditions at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex.

"While some areas of implementation, including general cleanliness and hygiene as well as animal control, have required attention, the Badminton Association of India (BAI) has acted promptly to address these concerns.

"Players have also noted the positive enhancements to the playing surface and flooring, gymnasium, and medical facilities.

"The Indira Gandhi Sports Complex meets BWF's 'field of play' requirements for hosting the BWF World Championships and provides greater space for athletes and officials.

"Our priority remains ensuring a safe, high-quality environment for all participants, and we are confident this will meet the expectations of all stakeholders.

"Insights gathered this week will guide further upgrades to deliver a world-class experience in August, when seasonal issues are not expected to be as severe.

"Managing factors largely related to seasonal conditions, such as haze and cold weather affecting air quality and temperature inside the venue, has posed challenges this week."

In a bizarre incident, a second-round match involving Singapore's former world champion Loh Kean Yew and Indian shuttler H.S. Prannoy on Thursday was halted twice after bird droppings fell onto the court at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, which is part of the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex.

Denmark's men's singles world No. 2 Anders Antonsen withdrew from the tournament for the third consecutive year due to air pollution, while another Dane, women's singles world No. 20 Mia Blichfeldt, also highlighted cleanliness issues and unusually cold conditions at the complex.

BWF said the feedback received is invaluable in providing the best environment for the ongoing India Open and future events.

According to Indian media, BAI has promised to overcome the issues when the World Championships are staged at the venue.