‘AQI 1556’: Indonesian Tennis Player Slams Chennai Open Organisers After Final Delayed Due To Diwali-Induced Pollution

The women's singles final of the Chennai Open was delayed by a day on Sunday, November 8 due to heavy rain and dense smog that impacted the playing conditions at the venue. Indonesian tennis player Janice Tjen, who was to compete against Poland's Magda Linette, criticized tournament organizers for proceeding with the match despite the hazardous air quality. Tjen posted a video on Instagram showcasing the thick smog enveloping parts of Chennai, raising concerns about the organizers' decision to hold the final as planned.

Janice Tjen, the reigning champion and world No. 75, took to social media to express her dissatisfaction with the situation. She shared a clip of her coach, Christopher Bint, stating that the organizers or the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) intended to have the final commence on Sunday night, regardless of the hazardous air quality. The video highlighted the poor visibility caused by the heavy smoke and pollution.

The tournament's AQI (Air Quality Index) reading reached a concerning level of 1556, far exceeding the severe threshold of 400 on India's air quality scale. Such extreme pollution can lead to breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and significant health risks, rendering outdoor sporting events unsafe for both players and spectators. Following the postponement, the women's singles final was rescheduled to take place at 11 am on Monday, November 9.