Anders Antonsen criticizes BWF over India Open pollution concerns

Danish badminton player Anders Antonsen has criticized the Badminton World Federation (BWF) regarding the scheduling of the India Open in Delhi. Antonsen expressed frustration that the tournament is held during January or February, a period when the capital city experiences extreme air pollution.

Antonsen has missed the India Open for three consecutive seasons due to these hazardous environmental conditions. Under BWF Player Commitment Regulations, missing a mandatory Super 750 event without a medical exemption results in a $5,000 fine. Antonsen noted that while he is satisfied with the facilities and current air quality during the BWF World Championships in August, he remains opposed to the winter scheduling of the India Open.

Despite the fines, the world No. 4 indicated that the BWF's decision to keep the tournament in the winter months makes it difficult to commit to future editions.