KUALA LUMPUR – The Badminton World Federation (BWF) is standing firm in its position regarding player obligations, asserting that its rules are crucial for maintaining the overall health of the badminton ecosystem, despite Viktor Axelsen’s recent objections to a US$5,000 (RM23,250) fine.
World number three shuttler Axelsen of Denmark, who withdrew from the World Tour Finals, has been fined in accordance with BWF regulations.
The fine stems from Axelsen’s failure to attend required media and commercial activities, a rule that has been in place for over a decade to ensure the visibility and commercial success of the sport’s biggest events.
BWF secretary-general Thomas Lund, in a statement to the media today, emphasised that the regulations are necessary to sustain the commercial viability of top tournaments, guaranteeing that players fulfil their responsibilities in promoting the sport.
While participation is often perceived as simply competing in matches, the rules specify that players must also engage in media and commercial activities, with a minimum of one to two days’ attendance required.
“BWF is certain that Axelsen is well aware of the regulations and the way these are managed in practice, but we are not able to understand or speculate on why he wishes to question the intentions around the regulations.
“The BWF does not share this view and remains confident that the regulations are set up in the best interest of all players to ensure a professional circuit with significant earning opportunities, while still protecting players’ physical and mental health,” Lund stated.
The BWF regulations also stated that if a player is medically fit to travel but refuses to attend, they may be fined, as Axelsen was.
However, players suffering from injuries or serious medical conditions are granted exemptions without facing consequences.
Axelsen, who withdrew from the Finals due to a foot injury, expressed frustration over the fine, asserting that the BWF’s approach was unfair.
He clarified that his decision to withdraw was motivated by his need to focus on rehabilitation and recovery, not a desire to avoid his obligations.
Axelsen’s critique of the BWF comes amid a broader conversation about player welfare, reignited by American shuttler Zhang Beiwen’s emotional account of her struggles as a self-funded athlete.
Beiwen’s social media post highlighted issues such as financial strain, isolation, and the mental toll of the BWF’s demanding tournament schedule.
Despite Axelsen’s protest, the BWF maintains that the rules benefit both the players and the sport, providing commercial opportunities and long-term protection for athletes. — December 4, 2024