Delhi air pollution hits India Open 2026 as world no.3 badminton star Anders Antonsen pulls out

World no.3 badminton star Anders Antonsen from Denmark has pulled out of the ongoing Indian Open 2026 in New Delhi due to severe air pollution in the National Capital. The Danish made the announcement public on Instagram. Antonsen's withdrawal from Indian Open 2026 came just after fellow

In a significant blow to the ongoing India Open 2026, World No. 3 Anders Antonsen has officially withdrawn from the India Open 2026, citing hazardous air pollution levels in New Delhi. This marks the third consecutive year that the Danish star has opted out of the Super 750 event, a decision that has sparked a heated debate regarding the suitability of the Indian capital as a top-tier sporting venue during the winter months. Antonsen, who recently reached the semi-finals of the Malaysia Open, didn't hold back in his criticism of Delhi. Taking to social media, he shared a screenshot of Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI)-which has hovered in the "Severe" and "Very Poor" categories between 300 and 400, stating that the city is currently not a fit environment for professional badminton.

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