Denmark Shuttler Steps Up Criticism, Questions Delhi’s Readiness to Host World Championships

Denmark’s Mia Blichfeldt has intensified her criticism of the India Open Super 750, taking to Instagram on Friday, January 16, to once again call out what she described as inadequate and unacceptable playing conditions at the Delhi venue.

The Danish shuttler, who had voiced similar concerns during last year’s tournament, said the issues this time were no different and continued to hamper players’ ability to prepare and perform at the highest level.

Blichfeldt had earlier raised alarms over hygiene and infrastructure at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall, claiming that the training area was contaminated with bird droppings. Her remarks sparked widespread debate, prompting several international players to publicly share their own concerns about conditions at the capital’s venue.

Among those who spoke out was Singapore’s Loh Kean Yew, the former world champion and current world No. 10, who highlighted Delhi’s severe air pollution. Loh revealed that he wears a mask whenever possible to protect himself from pollutants and noted a visible drop in players’ energy levels during matches.

The mounting criticism has pushed the Badminton Association of India into damage-control mode. In an official statement, the organisers acknowledged the concerns raised by players and assured that corrective measures would be taken ahead of the BWF World Championships scheduled to be hosted in Delhi later this year.

However, Blichfeldt doubled down on her criticism on Friday, openly questioning whether Delhi is currently capable of staging an event as significant as the World Championships.

Describing the situation as “unacceptable” and “highly unprofessional,” she said she was relieved that the issue was finally receiving global attention.

“I honestly didn’t anticipate how difficult the last four days in India have been. I had mentally prepared myself for ‘the worst’ once again, but the conditions surrounding US are simply unacceptable and highly unprofessional,” Blichfeldt wrote on Instagram.

“On and off the court, we are here to perform and remain committed to our preparations. Sadly, it becomes quite challenging to concentrate only on competing and giving our best performance in these situations,” she added.

She further noted that what initially feels like an inconvenience quickly turns into a serious issue affecting athletes’ mental and physical well-being.

“The conditions during a World Tour Super 750 event are stressful and frustrating for everyone. At first, you try to laugh it off, but in the end, it is neither funny nor fair to the players or anyone participating in this event,” Blichfeldt said.

“I’m glad that this problem is finally getting the attention it needs. Unfortunately, I don’t see how a World Championship could be staged here given the current situation,” she concluded.

Anders Antonsen Withdraws Over Pollution

Blichfeldt’s remarks follow the withdrawal of another prominent Danish player, world No. 2 Anders Antonsen, who pulled out of the tournament citing “extreme pollution” in the national capital.

Antonsen explained his decision in a social media post, stating that this was the third consecutive year he had opted out of the India Open due to air quality concerns.

“A lot of people are wondering why I have withdrawn from the India Open for the third year in a row. I don’t think Delhi is a suitable location for a badminton event because of the city’s current high pollution,” Antonsen wrote.

“Crossing my fingers that it will be better in the summer when the World Championships will take place in Delhi. As a result, BWF once again has fined me 5,000 USD,” he added.

BAI Secretary Says Critics Will Regret Their Doubts

Responding to the backlash, Badminton Association of India secretary Sanjay Mishra acknowledged the challenges but remained confident about the country’s ability to host the World Championships successfully.

In an interview with India Today, Mishra said that the India Open was effectively serving as a test event for the World Championships and expressed optimism that improvements would be visible by August.

He added that the World Championships would be organised on a much larger scale, promising a festival-like atmosphere for players and fans alike.

The controversy, however, highlights broader concerns around India’s growing ambition to host mega sporting events, including a potential bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.

In recent years, the country has faced repeated organisational challenges at international sporting events, with critics arguing that authorities have often been slow to acknowledge shortcomings, let alone address them comprehensively.

In a detailed statement, the BAI reiterated that it would explore all possible solutions to ensure a smooth and professional World Championships later this year, aiming to meet global standards expected at an event of such magnitude.