Former world champion Loh Kean Yew of Singapore was at his ruthless best on court—and just as effective off it—as he spoke candidly about the much-criticised air quality and playing conditions in New Delhi.
World No. 10 Loh said players’ energy levels have been affected by the poor air quality in the Indian capital, which is hosting the India Open Super 750 badminton tournament. He was speaking after a three-game win over local hope HS Prannoy on January 15.
Loh revealed that he has been trying to minimise exposure by staying indoors when not competing and relying heavily on a mask to cope with the conditions. The Singapore shuttler’s remarks came days after World No. 2 Anders Antonsen withdrew from the top-tier tournament, citing “extreme pollution” in Delhi.
When asked whether the conditions were an issue, Loh did not hesitate. “Yeah, of course. Anyone would. I am surprised you guys (reporters) are okay,” he said. “I breathe less (laughs). No, I mean I just wear my mask when I can. Other than that, I try to stay indoors as much as possible. But, there’s only that much that I can do.”
STAMINA TWO LEVELS DOWN
Loh repeatedly returned to the subject during his media interaction. Asked how his body was feeling at the start of the new season, he replied: “It was good in Malaysia until I came here (body). The weather is not so good. But, other than that, I am playing one match at a time.”
When quizzed on the secret behind his consistent run at the India Open – a hat-trick of quarterfinal appearances – Loh delivered another tongue-in-cheek jab. “Probably the weather here. Everyone’s stamina has dropped two levels down.”
On court, Loh recovered from losing the opening game to beat Prannoy 18-21, 21-19, 21-14. The Indian, however, chose not to blame the conditions. “I don’t think so. It’s kind of pretty same for all the players out there. When you are on court, all those things don’t really matter. It’s up to you what you want to do,” Prannoy said.
“Yeah, it’s pretty cold out here. But, after the first five minutes, you really don’t worry about it.”
MOUNTING PRESSURE ON BADMINTON BODIES
The Badminton Association of India (BAI) and the Badminton World Federation have faced mounting criticism this week, with several players voicing dissatisfaction over conditions and hygiene standards at the venue.
Danish star Antonsen, ranked among the world’s elite, pulled out of the India Open for the third consecutive year, sharing a snapshot of Delhi’s Air Quality Index and stating he did not believe the capital was suitable to host a major badminton event under such conditions.
His comments followed earlier remarks from compatriot Mia Blichfeldt, who described aspects of the tournament setup – particularly warm-up areas – as “dirty and unhealthy”, citing bird droppings and dust that she felt could affect player health and performance.
However, the BAI has firmly rejected the criticism. General secretary Sanjay Mishra defended the tournament‘s arrangements, stressing that the India Open meets international standards and is serving as a test event ahead of the upcoming BWF World Championships later this year.
Mishra downplayed the complaints, suggesting that players commenting from abroad could not fairly judge local conditions. He also claimed that many participants and coaches have praised the facilities, flooring and overall organisation, adding that there was “no place for politics in sport”.
Supporters of the event within India, including former top player Kidambi Srikanth, echoed that view, pointing out that temporary operational issues are common at international tournaments – and not unique to Delhi.
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