World No. 3 Anders Antonsen pulls out of India Open, citing hazardous Delhi air pollution, and receives a $5,000 fine from the BWF.
WORLD No. 3 shuttler Anders Antonsen has withdrawn from the India Open, citing hazardous air pollution in the host city.
The Danish player announced his decision on social media, marking his third consecutive withdrawal from the tournament for this reason.
“The extreme pollution in Delhi made it unsuitable to host a badminton tournament,” Antonsen wrote.
He expressed hope that conditions would improve for the World Championships scheduled in Delhi this summer.
The Badminton World Federation has fined Antonsen USD 5,000 for his withdrawal.
Another Danish player, Mia Blichfeldt, had previously criticised the unhealthy playing conditions at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex venue.
The Badminton Association of India dismissed Blichfeldt’s claims about the conditions.
Air pollution is a severe and recurring problem in Delhi, often reaching critical levels during the winter months.