Shuttlers praise transformed IG Stadium ahead of BWF Worlds

International shuttlers have praised the revamped Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi as the 30th BWF World Championships begin on Monday. Seven months after the India Open Super 750 was marred by pigeon droppings, monkeys, and pollution, players noted significant improvements. The Badminton Association of India and the Sports Authority of India applied non-toxic gel to deter pigeons, deployed US-made bird-scaring machines, installed reinforced glass doors, and used trained men to mimic langurs.

Malaysia's Aaron Chia said the environment was 'a lot better than the last India Open.' Japan's Nozomi Okuhara, who faced logistical issues earlier, said the preparation is 'very good' and 'better than before.' However, reigning world champion Akane Yamaguchi said temperature control remains an issue, calling the venue 'pretty warm.' Lighting has improved after the organisers hired Indonesian Open experts. Indonesia's Fajar Alfian marvelled at the stadium's size: 'We hope we can afford a stadium like this.'