World No. 3 Antonsen Snubs India Open Over Delhi's 'Hazardous' Air Quality

• World No. 3 Anders Antonsen withdrew from the India Open due to "extreme" air pollution in Delhi, calling it unsuitable for a badminton tournament.
• Antonsen shared a screenshot showing Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) at 348, categorised as hazardous.
• The BWF fined Antonsen USD 5,000 for his withdrawal under player commitment regulations.
• Delhi's air quality deteriorates annually in winter due to vehicular pollution, stubble burning, and road dust, leading to dangerous smog.
• The India Open is being held at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, which is also slated to host the BWF World Championships in August.

Why It Matters: World No. 3 Antonsen withdrew from India Open citing Delhi's hazardous air quality, incurring a BWF fine.