India Open Plagued by 'Unhealthy' Conditions; Shuttlers Raise Concerns

• The India Open Super 750 tournament in New Delhi faces renewed controversy over unsatisfactory playing conditions, including unsanitary washrooms, air pollution, and substandard facilities.
• Danish player Mia Blichfeldt criticized the "health conditions," citing dirty floors, birds, and bird droppings in the arena, expressing concern for player health.
• Anders Antonsen withdrew from the tournament for the third consecutive year due to "extreme pollution in Delhi," leading to a USD 5,000 fine from BWF.
• Delhi's air quality is currently at a 'severe' level, impacting player well-being during the tournament.
• BAI Secretary Sanjay Mishra clarified that some complaints referred to the KD Jadhav Stadium (training venue), not the main Indira Gandhi International Stadium, while Indian player Srikanth Kidambi found the conditions acceptable.

Why It Matters: The India Open faces criticism over unhealthy playing conditions and severe air pollution in Delhi.