Indian badminton sensation P.V. Sindhu has publicly expressed her full confidence in New Delhi’s ability to host a supremely successful World Championships, effectively dismissing lingering concerns about environmental disruptions, including the presence of monkeys and birds. This prestigious event marks a significant return to India after a 17-year hiatus, with the action commencing on Monday at the iconic Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium.
Previous sporting events at this very venue have unfortunately been marred by unusual incidents. During the India Open in January, for instance, a monkey was observed within the spectator stands, and play was even interrupted by bird droppings and debris falling from a nest. However, organizers have proactively addressed these issues for the World Championships. A unique solution has been implemented: the hiring of “monkey whisperers.” These individuals are specially trained to deter rhesus macaques by imitating the alarm calls of their larger, more dominant langur counterparts, thereby keeping these troublesome primates away from the stadium.
Sindhu herself lauded these preventative measures. When questioned about the deployment of these “monkey wallahs,” she remarked, “I really appreciate their effort for doing it.” Having spent time at the venue for practice sessions, the 31-year-old Olympic silver and bronze medallist conveyed a strong sense of satisfaction with the preparations. “I have come yesterday and played today, we have had really really good sessions out there,” she stated, emphasizing the comfort and overall quality of the facilities. “Everything is comfortable and everything is good, from the washrooms to the people out here. They have put in all the efforts to make this happen.” The 2019 world champion confidently predicted that the meticulous efforts of the organizers would ensure that “this will be one of the greatest world championships.” Expressing her national pride, she added, “Being an Indian I can proudly say that we are fortunate and happy to play here at the home ground.”
Sindhu arrives at the tournament in peak form, fresh off her victory at the Japan Open last month, a win that ended a two-year drought for a major title. This recent triumph has significantly bolstered her morale and confidence. “Definitely, after winning the Japan Open that gave me a lot of boost and lot of confidence,” Sindhu explained. She articulated her anticipation for the tournament, stating, “Looking forward for the world championships to start and since it’s happening in India, really excited.”
As a long-standing standard-bearer for Indian badminton, Sindhu affirmed that her dedication and passion for the sport remain as fervent as ever, even after more than a decade at the elite level. “The hunger towards the game hasn’t changed. I know it is in me and I can still do it,” she asserted with conviction. Seeded ninth in the competition, Sindhu is set to commence her campaign against Ireland’s Sophia Noble in the opening round.
