‘Don’t mind paying a $5000 fine for skipping India Open’: Anders Antonsen

Danish badminton player Anders Antonsen recently skipped the India Open Super 750 due to concerns over air pollution. Antonsen is satisfied with the conditions at the World Championships held at the IG Indoor Stadium, noting that the hall is attractive and the practice facilities are excellent. He has stated that he will not return to the India Open if it continues to be scheduled in January or February due to the severe air pollution during that time.

Antonsen withdrew from the 2026 tournament and paid a mandatory $5000 fine for missing it. Despite the fine, Antonsen expressed no issue with paying it again if the tournament is held between January and March the following year. He emphasized that hosting the India Open during the pollution season is not a suitable decision for the Badminton World Federation.

Antonsen, currently ranked World no 4, will compete in the men's singles category and is expected to be Denmark's medal prospect, following the absence of former World Champion Viktor Axelsen. Antonsen mentioned he does not feel any additional pressure, only the pressure he places on himself to achieve and win.