Delhi Pollution: Antonsen Skips India Open, Fined $5,000; Cites Unhealthy Air

• Danish shuttler Anders Antonsen withdrew from the India Open Super 750 Badminton Tournament for the third consecutive year, citing high pollution levels in Delhi.
• Antonsen, along with compatriot Mia Blichfeldt, criticized Delhi's suitability for hosting badminton tournaments due to pollution and unhygienic conditions.
• The World Badminton Federation (BWF) fined Antonsen USD 5,000 for his withdrawal, as top players are required to participate in such events.
• Antonsen hopes conditions will improve for the BWF Badminton World Championship in August, also scheduled at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium.
• Mia Blichfeldt also complained about the cleanliness and cold conditions at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, despite the venue change.

Why It Matters: Delhi's severe pollution and unhygienic conditions are deterring top badminton players from the India Open.