New Delhi, June 28: Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu on Sunday termed the upcoming BWF World Championships in New Delhi a “landmark moment” for Indian badminton, saying the opportunity to compete for the sport’s biggest prize at home would make the tournament even more special.
The Badminton Association of India (BAI) officially began the 50-day countdown to the World Championships, which will be held at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium from August 17 to 23.
The event will mark the return of the Championships to India after 17 years and its first-ever staging in the national capital.
“To have the opportunity to play the World Championships in India, in front of our own fans, makes it even more meaningful. It’s not often that you get to compete for a world title at home, and I’m really looking forward to experiencing that atmosphere and giving my best for everyone who has supported me through the years,” said Sindhu, India’s only world champion after winning the 2019 title in Basel.
The 30-year-old said hosting the event reflected the growth of the sport in the country.
BAI president Himanta Biswa Sarma described the return of the World Championships as a defining moment for Indian badminton.
The Championships are expected to attract participants from more than 55 countries, with nearly 800 players, team officials, support staff, technical officials and media personnel.
Reigning Olympic women’s singles champion An Se-young of South Korea, China’s Shi Yu Qi, Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn and several top-ranked doubles pairs are expected to compete. (PTI)
