Post by : Meena Ariff

World No. 3 badminton star Anders Antonsen has opened up about his decision to withdraw from the ongoing India Open Super 750 tournament in Delhi, blaming the city’s worsening air quality for his absence.

The Danish player, a four-time World Championships medalist, said that the severe pollution levels in the national capital made it unsafe for him to compete. His withdrawal has also resulted in a fine from the Badminton World Federation (BWF), which enforces strict participation rules for top-ranked players.

Under BWF regulations, athletes listed as “Top Committed Players” — including the top 15 singles players and top 10 doubles pairs — are required to compete in World Tour 750 and 1000 events, as well as the season-ending World Tour Finals. Players are only exempt if they are injured or receive official medical clearance. Those who skip tournaments without approved reasons face penalties that go beyond regular late withdrawal charges.

Antonsen explained on social media that this was the third year in a row he had chosen not to play at the India Open due to pollution concerns. He questioned whether the conditions were suitable for hosting a major international event and said he hoped the situation would improve before Delhi hosts the World Championships later this year. He also revealed that BWF fined him USD 5,000 for missing the tournament.

While competition participation is mandatory for top players, BWF rules allow exemptions for those who fulfil promotional duties on-site. World champion and current World No. 1 Shi Yuqi also pulled out of the India Open but visited Delhi briefly to take part in promotional activities.

Concerns over playing conditions have already surrounded the tournament. Danish shuttler Mia Blichfeldt recently criticised the venue, describing the environment as unhealthy. She pointed to poor cleanliness and said birds flying inside the stadium were disrupting training sessions and matches.

Meanwhile, Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated further in recent days, with several parts of the city reporting Air Quality Index readings above 300, categorised as severe. The situation has intensified discussions around athlete safety and the challenges of hosting international sporting events under such conditions.

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