This is the third year in a row that the Danish star has missed the event in Delhi. Antonsen stated that the severe pollution levels in Delhi currently make it unsuitable for hosting a badminton tournament.
“Many are wondering why I have opted out of the India Open for the third consecutive year. Considering the severe pollution in Delhi right now, I believe it’s not a suitable location for a badminton tournament,” he posted on Instagram.
In a separate update, he included a screenshot of Delhi’s air quality index to illustrate the severity of the air pollution. The AQI reading was 348, categorizing it as ‘hazardous’.
The 28-year-old player also expressed hope that the World Championships, scheduled in Delhi later this year, will take place under improved environmental conditions. “Fingers crossed that the situation will be better in the summer when the World Championships are held in Delhi.”
He noted that his choice to withdraw has resulted in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) imposing a $5,000 fine on him.
The India Open, a premier badminton tournament, is being held at the Indira Gandhi International Stadium for the first time. Previously, the tournament took place at the smaller KD Jadhav Indoor Stadium within the same sports complex.
Antonsen’s statement follows criticism from Mia Blichfeldt, the World number 20, regarding the cleanliness and hygiene at the new venue of the India Open Super 750 tournament. She described the location as ‘dirty and unhealthy’ and noted that the situation hadn’t improved since last year.
Blichfeldt highlighted specific concerns like dirt on the floors, bird droppings in the warm-up areas, cold temperatures, and dust, which she believed could impact players’ health and performance.
While she expressed satisfaction with the quality of the courts, her primary worry was the overall environment and cleanliness. She also mentioned reporting similar concerns at the KD Jadhav Indoor Stadium in past years.
