India Open Faces Disruptions Amid Venue Concerns Ahead of World Championships

The 2024 India Open badminton tournament in New Delhi faced disruptions including bird droppings halting matches twice and a monkey sighting in the stands, raising concerns about venue conditions. Former world champion Loh Kean Yew and player Mia Blichfeldt criticized the environment, with Blichfeldt questioning the suitability of the venue for the upcoming World Championships. BAI general secretary Sanjay Mishra acknowledged the event as a test at the larger Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, despite earlier claims of a pigeon-free venue. Loh advanced to the semifinals after defeating Kunlavut Vitidsarn.