Delhi's pollution has become a matter of worldwide discussion. Whatever Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta may claim about pollution, the picture is not good at all. Everyone, from ordinary Delhi residents to politicians, has criticised Delhi's condition. This time it was seen in badminton. World number three and four-time World medallist Denmark's Anders Antonsen withdrew from the India Open Super 750 badminton event due to Delhi's pollution. This is the third year he has decided not to come to play in India because of pollution. His decision has brought Delhi's pollution back into discussion.
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Antonsen wrote on his social media, "Many is curious to why I have pulled out of the India Open for the 3rd consecutive year. Due to the extreme pollution in Delhi at the moment I don't thinks it's a place to host a badminton tournament. Crossing my fingers that it will be better in the Summer when the World Championships will take place in Delhi."
He last played the India Open in 2023. Since then, he has not come to India due to pollution. He also had to pay a fine for withdrawing from the tournament. This time, he has been fined 5,000 US dollars. According to the rules, top committed players (top 15 singles players and 10 top doubles players) must play in World Tour 750 events unless they have an injury or physical problem.
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BWF clarifies fine and withdrawal rules
Regarding Anders Antonsen, BWF sources explained that over the past three years, Anders had requested to withdraw from events due to physical reasons, mentioning that he has asthma. They added that players who withdraw are still required to participate in certain aspects of the event, including media day and promotional activities, and noted that he was fined for not fulfilling these obligations.
