Badminton star An Se-young says ready to play through pain in pursuit of world title

Olympic champion badminton player An Se-young declared on Friday her determination to compete through residual discomfort in her left foot as she aims for her second women's singles world title this month. Se-young departed for New Delhi on Friday to train for the Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Championships, scheduled from Monday to August 23.

This will mark her first event since she withdrew from the second round of the Japan Open on July 15 owing to a left foot injury. She had previously informed Korean media in late July that she had nearly recovered and was prepared for the world championships. On Friday, the 2023 world champion provided an update, stating that she has been fully involved in all training sessions lately.

Se-young, currently the world No. 1, told reporters at Incheon International Airport, located west of Seoul, that while she has had ample training, the experience of playing in matches is uniquely different. She expressed that settling into a tournament as it progresses, and overcoming any rust, will be crucial elements at this competition. Se-young acknowledged that she is not entirely devoid of concerns.