‘Unacceptable and highly unprofessional’: Denmark star again questions India’s readiness for World Cup | Badminton News – The Times of India

Danish shuttler Mia Blichfeldt has renewed her criticism of the hygienic conditions at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, a day after her exit from the 16th round of the BWF India Open. The Super 750 tournament is being organized as a test event ahead of the BWF World Championships to be held at the same venue later this year.Blichfeldt, who had voiced his concerns on the opening day of the tournament, again expressed strong dissatisfaction before leaving India on Friday. In a post on social media, Blichfeldt shared a photo of bird droppings on a badminton court and described the experience as deeply disturbing.

Mia Blichfeldt insta post

“The last few days in India have been tough – tougher than I honestly expected. I had mentally prepared myself again for ‘the worst’, but the conditions around us are simply unacceptable and highly unprofessional,” Blichfeldt wrote.The former World Tour winner stressed that such conditions make it extremely difficult for players to focus on competition and preparation. “We are here to perform and to stay focused on our preparations both on and off the field. Unfortunately, under these circumstances it becomes extremely difficult to focus solely on competing and delivering our best performances,” the post said.Blichfeldt also pointed to the growing frustration among players at the venue. “Everyone is stressed and frustrated by the conditions we face at a World Tour Super 750 event. At first you try to laugh it off, but ultimately it is neither funny nor fair to the players or anyone competing in this event.”Concerns escalated on Thursday when the match between HS Prannoy and Loh Kean Yew was stopped twice after bird droppings fell on court 1. The situation followed the sighting of a monkey in the stands near the training ground. Stray dogs were spotted in the complex on Friday, while an MCD dog catcher was at the location.In response to the backlash, the BWF acknowledged challenges related to seasonal conditions but maintained confidence in the site. “Our assessments confirm that the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex represents a significant upgrade… and meets BWF playing surface requirements,” the federation said.Despite that assurance, Blichfeldt remained unconvinced. “Unfortunately, under the current circumstances, I find it very difficult to see how a World Championship could be held here,” Blichfeldt wrote, expressing hope for better protection and conditions for players in the future.