Danish Star Mia Blichfeldt Voices Strong Criticism of India Open Conditions
Danish badminton player Mia Blichfeldt has raised serious concerns about the playing conditions at the India Open Super 750 tournament in New Delhi. The world number twenty took to social media to express her frustration, calling the situation "simply unacceptable and highly unprofessional."
Blichfeldt Details Multiple Issues at IG Indoor Stadium
Blichfeldt posted on Instagram three days after her initial criticism of the tournament. She highlighted several problems that have affected players during the event. Her post included photographs showing bird droppings on the ground and hazy conditions inside the arena.
"The past few days in India have been tough – tougher than I honestly expected," Blichfeldt wrote. "I had mentally prepared myself for 'the worst' once again, but the conditions surrounding us are simply unacceptable and highly unprofessional."
The 2026 edition of the India Open has moved to the larger IG Indoor Stadium within the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex. This venue shift was intended to accommodate more spectators and provide better facilities. However, players have reported multiple issues since the tournament began.
Incidents Mar Tournament as World Championship Test Event
The India Open serves as a test event for the Badminton World Federation World Championships scheduled for August 2026 in New Delhi. Several incidents have disrupted play and raised questions about venue readiness:
- Bird droppings on court causing play stoppages
- Monkey sightings in the spectator stands
- Air pollution creating hazy conditions inside the arena
- General cleanliness and hygiene concerns
Blichfeldt emphasized how these conditions affect player performance. "We are here to perform and to stay focused on our preparations, both on and off the court," she explained. "Unfortunately, under these circumstances, it becomes extremely difficult to focus solely on competing and delivering our best performance."
Organizers Respond to Mounting Criticism
The Badminton Association of India and Badminton World Federation have issued multiple statements addressing player concerns. Both organizations acknowledge problems with cleanliness, hygiene, and animal control at the venue.
The BWF stated that they have engaged with players and teams during the tournament to review conditions. "The feedback received — both positive and constructive — is invaluable in shaping the best possible environment for this tournament and future championships," the governing body said.
BAI officials have promised improvements before the World Championships in August. They note that the IG Stadium represents a significant upgrade from the previous KD Jadhav Stadium venue, with better infrastructure overall.
Blichfeldt Questions World Championship Hosting Capability
Despite organizational responses, Blichfeldt remains skeptical about New Delhi's readiness to host the World Championships. "I am glad that this issue is finally receiving the attention it deserves," she wrote. "I truly hope for better conditions for us players in the future if we are to continue competing in India."
The Danish shuttler directly questioned whether the prestigious event should proceed as planned. "Sadly, under the current circumstances, I find it very difficult to see how a World Championship could be held here," Blichfeldt stated. "I hope BWF will do more to ensure proper conditions and better protection for the players in the future."
This marks the second consecutive year that Blichfeldt has criticized conditions at the India Open tournament. Her comments have sparked broader discussions about venue standards for international badminton events.
