BWF Prioritizes Player Health and Modernization Amid Criticism and Challenges

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) is grappling with concerns surrounding the health and well-being of players on the court this year. In an exclusive interview with the Global Times, Thomas Lund, the BWF secretary-general, expressed a strong commitment to addressing these issues following criticism from two-time Olympic men's singles champion Viktor Axelsen. Axelsen, who withdrew from the World Tour Finals due to an injury, publicly criticized the BWF for not providing adequate support for athletes' health and faced a fine for his absence. The BWF had required him to submit medical documentation to request a waiver for the penalty.

Lund emphasized that the BWF prioritizes the welfare of players, stating that exemptions would be granted if a player is unable to travel due to severe injury. He clarified that only players who are medically fit yet choose not to participate in activities related to the tournament would face financial penalties. In light of the controversy, Axelsen subsequently attended a promotional event for the World Tour Finals, thereby adhering to BWF requirements.

The BWF has also been prompted to reassess its emergency protocols following the tragic passing of Chinese junior player Zhang Zhijie during a competition in June. Lund mentioned that the BWF has reviewed its Medical Emergency Intervention Protocols, allowing medical personnel to enter the court directly to attend to players in critical situations. These measures have already been put into action, with necessary medical equipment on standby during events. Furthermore, Lund remarked on the importance of regular health monitoring for athletes within high-performance programs to enhance their safety.

Looking ahead, Hangzhou will remain a host city for the World Tour Finals through 2026, with Xiamen set to host the upcoming Sudirman Cup. Lund reiterated China's important role in the badminton landscape, highlighting its successful history in the sport and the robust support from fans and local communities. He acknowledged the ongoing cooperation between the BWF and the Chinese Badminton Association as crucial for successful tournament operations.

In the pursuit of expanding badminton’s global presence, the BWF is innovating to attract younger audiences. Plans include automated systems to improve gameplay efficiency and increased use of social media to engage with younger fans authentically. Lund detailed the BWF’s collaborative approach with publishers and influencers to better appeal to modern consumption habits, asserting that their goal remains to inspire lifelong participation in badminton while establishing grassroots programs to nurture new players.