The India Open is currently underway at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi, but players have raised concerns over the conditions. Danish shuttler Mia Blichfeldt openly criticized the venue, citing unhygienic surroundings and extreme cold, calling it unfit for professional competition. She has urged the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to intervene and ensure improvements ahead of the World Championship.
The Badminton Association of India (BAI) had moved this year’s India Open Super 750 tournament from KD Jadhav Hall to IG Stadium, keeping in mind the upcoming World Championships scheduled for August. India will host the event after a 17-year gap.
Speaking after reaching the second round, Blichfeldt said, “I had expected conditions here to be better than the previous hall, but it’s still very dirty and not healthy for players. Everyone is practicing wearing two trousers, jackets, gloves, and hats. I know everyone is trying their best, but there is still a long way to go.”
Blichfeldt had also criticized KD Jadhav Hall during the January tournament, calling it unacceptable and unhealthy. She added, “Nothing seems to have improved. When I came to practice yesterday, birds were flying inside and perching on the court. This is not normal or healthy. Many players may not even be willing to play in such conditions. The BWF must step in and ensure improvements.”
Despite her concerns, she expressed satisfaction with the playing arena itself, saying, “The venue is very good and large. I enjoy playing on this court, but not under unhealthy conditions.”
Other players echoed her concerns. Canadian shuttler Michelle Li said, “Practicing in this extreme cold is difficult. The hall is so large that I even lost my way twice. It’s colder than the other hall.” Former world champion Ratchanok Intanon also highlighted the need for heaters, questioning how players can prepare in such low temperatures. “I’m not sure what the weather will be like during the World Championship. Hopefully, it won’t be this cold,” she added.
The BWF and local organizers now face the challenge of addressing these complaints to ensure player safety and comfort ahead of the major tournament.
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