KUALA LUMPUR – The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has downplayed the likelihood of the country stepping in to host the World Championships this year.
The prestigious tournament is scheduled to be held in New Delhi from August 17–23, but several players have raised concerns over India’s suitability as hosts following issues at the recently concluded India Open.
Denmark’s men’s singles star Anders Antonsen withdrew from the tournament, citing the air pollution in New Delhi, while his teammate Mia Blichfeldt complained about the unhygienic training facilities at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, the same venue slated for the World Championships.
Other disruptions included a monkey being spotted in the spectators’ area and bird droppings found on the court.
The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has stated that it will work with the Badminton Association of India (BAI) to ensure the facilities meet world-class standards, but doubts remain over India’s ability to host the event.
Should India lose the hosting rights, another country would need to step in to stage the tournament.
When asked whether Malaysia would be interested in taking over as hosts, BAM secretary-general Datuk Kenny Goh played down the prospect, emphasising the complexities involved.
“Firstly, there have been no discussions suggesting that India cannot host the World Championships,” he told Scoop when contacted.
“It is not that simple. India won the bid for the event based on the criteria set by the BWF. I am also confident that the organisers and BWF will take all necessary steps to rectify any issues that could affect the tournament.
“Even if India cannot host, it does not automatically mean Malaysia will be offered the opportunity. And even if Malaysia were offered, which is highly unlikely due to the formal process, we would need to evaluate the business model. At present, the BWF’s business model is not particularly favourable for the host country.
“There are many factors to consider before taking on a major event,” Kenny added.
Malaysia last hosted the World Championships in 2007 in Kuala Lumpur, while India staged the tournament most recently in Hyderabad in 2009. – January 19, 2026