Dubai: Indian badminton star PV Sindhu has been forced to withdraw from the upcoming All England Badminton Championships after becoming stranded in Dubai due to regional airspace closures.
The two-time Olympic medalist had been scheduled to compete in the Super 1000 tournament beginning March 3 in Birmingham, but travel disruptions in the Gulf region have prevented her arrival.
Stranded Amid Airspace Closures
Flights from Dubai were suspended following escalating geopolitical tensions in the region. Sindhu, along with her support staff including Indonesian coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama, remained at the airport before being relocated to a secure area after reports of nearby explosions.
With no confirmed outbound flights and ongoing travel uncertainty, Sindhu’s participation in one of badminton’s most prestigious tournaments became impossible.
Impact on the Tournament
Sindhu had been drawn to face Thailand’s Supanida Katethong in the opening round. Her withdrawal alters the dynamics of the women’s singles field at the All England, a tournament that remains one of the most historic events in global badminton.
BWF Monitoring the Situation
The Badminton World Federation (BWF) confirmed it is closely monitoring travel developments and remains prepared to assist delegations experiencing route changes or delays.
The federation emphasized that the safety and well-being of players and officials remain the top priority, while contingency plans are being reviewed should additional arrivals be affected.
Other Indian Players Arrive
Several Indian players successfully reached Birmingham through alternative travel routes. Lakshya Sen, a former finalist at the tournament, is set to face world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi in the opening round. Ayush Shetty will meet Indonesia’s Alwi Farhan.
All England’s Historical Significance
The All England remains one of badminton’s most iconic championships. Prakash Padukone and Pullela Gopichand are the only Indian men to have won the title, while Saina Nehwal and Lakshya Sen have come close in recent years.
Sindhu’s absence represents a setback for India’s campaign, but tournament play will continue as scheduled.
Follow our continuing coverage for the latest updates from the All England and international badminton events worldwide.
