Badminton tournament the latest casualty of Hong Kong’s coronavirus policy

Amidst Hong Kong’s reluctance to open up, the Hong Kong Badminton Associate (HKBA) has announced that it will cancel the Yonex-Sunrise Hong Kong Open Badminton Championships for the third year in a row. 

Initially set for November 8 to 13 at the Hong Kong Coliseum,  the organiser cites the government’s isolation bubble policy as the reason behind the decision. Hopeful things will change next year; the HKBA is setting its sights on another edition in September 2023.

In a statement, the HKBA says it’s been working with the government on a solution for several months. However, the 400 players and staff from around the world would have to comply with coronavirus protocols different from other World Tour events.

“Although the government updated its isolation and quarantine arrangements in early August, over 400 overseas players/officials are required to train and compete for 8 to 10 days in the form of isolation bubble. Since the COVID-19 protocol and quarantine arrangements between Hong Kong and other World Tour events are different.”

The HKBA says cancelling was their only option.

As part of the HSBC BWF World Tour Super 500 tournament, cancelling another edition of the Hong Kong Open could affect the city’s importance in the international badminton scene and its status as an important hub for the sport.

The BWF is divided into five levels comprising 26 tournaments. At the highest level is the Super 1000, followed by Super 750, Super 500, Super 300 and Super 100. The ranking points and prize money are different for each level, with the Super 1000 being the most prestigious. 

While the Hong Kong Open will remain a Super 500 event in 2023, the Singapore and India editions will be bumped up to Super 750 status next year. 

Also see: Iconic Hong Kong cross-harbour swim on hold amidst pandemic restrictions