Hundreds of Shuttlers to Vie in 2021 Indonesia Badminton Festival

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A total of 256 shuttlers will compete in the 2021 Indonesia Badminton Festival (IBF). Most players attended the opening ceremony in Nusa Dua, Bali yesterday, November 11, 2021.

The ceremony featured traditional arts and outdoor dinner and was opened by the chair of the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI), Agung Firman Sampurna.

"We want to show the world that Indonesia has successfully overcome the pandemic by holding a reputable sport event," he said. To show the world that Indonesia is able to hold an international event safely during the pandemic, PBSI will hold three tournaments.

Additionally, Indonesia's last month's Thomas Cup win after 19 years has brought spirits and confidence for the badminton team. "Hopefully they [athletes] can perform well and enjoy the beauty and hospitality of Bali," said Agung.

A string of top players are set to participate in Indonesia Masters, Indonesia Open and BWF World Tour Finals, such as Viktor Axelsen (Denmark), Chou Tien Chen (Chinese Taipei), Lee Zii Jia (Malaysia), Pusarla V. Sindhu (India), Ratchanok Intanon (Thailand) and the Japaneses Kento Momota, Akane Yamaguchi and Yuta Watanabe/Arisa Higashino.

Indonesia will be represented by some of its best shuttlers, such as Anthony Sinisuka Ginting, Jonatan Christie, Shesar Hiren Rhustavito, from the men's singles. 

As for the doubles, Indonesia will be represented by Marcus Fernaldi Gideon/Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo, Hendra Setiawan/Mohammad Ahsan, Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto.

Tokyo Olympics gold medalists Greysia Polii/Apriyani Rahayu and Praveen Jordan/Melati Daeva Oktavianti will also vie in the competition.

Japanese badminton athlete Kento Momota seemed to enjoy Bali's traditional dance Kecak and some of the foods served. "This is a nice event, great facility and everything is arranged nicely. I'm glad to participate this time."

Read: After Two-Year Gap, Indonesia Announces Thre Badminton Tournaments

ANTARA