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China’s badminton team praised Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Stadium preparations for the BWF World Championships, noting significant improvements since the India Open.
BWF is satisfied with updates at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium ahead of World Championships. (Picture Credit: AFP)
China’s badminton contingent has given a positive assessment of the preparations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Stadium ahead of the BWF World Championships, saying the venue conditions have improved considerably since the India Open earlier this year.
The World Championships, which begin on Monday and run until August 23, return to India after 17 years. Organisers have undertaken extensive upgrades following a troubled India Open in January, when pigeons twice interrupted the second-round match between HS Prannoy and Loh Kean Yew.
Hygiene concerns and Delhi’s air quality had also attracted criticism. Previously, monkeys have entered the stands, while a dog biting incident also happened at the World Para Athletics last year. The Badminton Association of India was in the crosshairs for the incidents and their ensuing alleged lack of accountability.
‘Much better now’
Tokyo Olympics champion and world No. 4 Chen Yufei, who competed at the India Open, said the venue had undergone noticeable improvements.
“It (the condition) is much better now, it’s just the weather I am not comfortable with.”
World No. 9 Li Shifeng was similarly encouraged by the changes, particularly the playing conditions.
“I feel that the drift, court conditions including the weather, are well maintained compared to India Open and it’s a very good place. Even the venue is well maintained and good.”
The Paris Olympics silver medallists in men’s doubles, Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang, also felt the difference, saying they had prepared well for the championships.
“The weather is good here but the court and conditions are a bit different compared to the India Open.”
For Wang Zhi Yi, the biggest change was immediately noticeable after her practice session.
“I think the stadium has changed a lot, that’s very good. I just finished my training, I feel like there was a little bit of wind on the court so we need to get used to the conditions.”
Wang, who finished runner-up at the India Open earlier this year, said she would focus on her preparation rather than the pressure of competing for a world title.
“I just want to focus on the process. I want to try do a little bit of change tactically.”
(With PTI Inputs)
Key Questions Answered
Ask News18The Indira Gandhi Arena in Delhi underwent a complete transformation, including structural and soft changes, with improvements to hygiene, washrooms, and the roof. Non-toxic gel and special machines were used to prevent birds from entering, and efforts were made to keep monkeys and stray dogs away. Lighting experts were brought in to oversee court lighting installation. The court conditions and drift control were also addressed by specialists.
Ask News18August 15, 2026, 23:40 IST
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