HYDERABAD: With several airlines suspending flights to and from parts of the Middle East until at least 3 pm on Monday following fresh attacks in the UAE, it may be difficult for former world champion PV Sindhu to reach Birmingham in time for the All England Championships. The opening rounds of the tournament begin on Tuesday and Wednesday.Even if organisers schedule Sindhu’s match for Wednesday, it remains to be seen whether the former world No. 2 can make it to the venue in time.
The Badminton World Federation said it is coordinating with Badminton England regarding the travel challenges. “BWF and Badminton England are closely monitoring the travel challenges arising from the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Middle East. We remain in regular contact with teams and players whose journeys to Birmingham for the All England Open 2026 may be affected,” BWF said.Badminton Association of India, meanwhile, said it is also in touch with Sindhu.