Anders Antonsen Withdraws from India Open Citing Delhi Pollution; Venue Conditions Disputed

Danish badminton star Anders Antonsen withdrew from the 2026 India Open for the third consecutive year, citing Delhi's extreme air pollution as the primary reason. He shared a hazardous Air Quality Index reading of 348 and expressed hope for improved conditions during the World Championships in Delhi later in the year. Antonsen was fined USD 5,000 by the Badminton World Federation for his withdrawal. Fellow Dane Mia Blichfeldt also criticised the venue's hygiene and training conditions, claims rejected by the Badminton Association of India, which affirmed the facilities meet international standards. Indian players like Kidambi Srikanth and PV Sindhu reported acceptable conditions, highlighting differing perspectives on the issue.