PETALING JAYA: Men's singles shuttler Justin Hoh is preparing not only physically but also mentally for the challenging conditions expected at the World Championships in New Delhi from Aug 17-23.
The Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, which hosted the Indian Open in January, drew criticism from players over its poor hygiene and cleanliness, while New Delhi's poor air quality due to severe pollution also became a major concern.
Adding to the problems, monkeys were also spotted roaming in and around the competition venue.
Although Justin, who competed at the Indian Open, did not personally encounter those issues, he is aware that other players did and hopes the Badminton Association of India (BAI) will raise their standards for the World Championships.
"The conditions in India are definitely challenging. We just have to prepare ourselves as best we can, including bringing our own food. But I believe they'll make improvements because the World Championships is a very major event.
"When we were there in January, there were all sorts of issues, including monkeys around the venue. I'm confident they'll address those problems this time," said Justin after a training session at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara.
Justin is currently putting the finishing touches to his preparations under coach Datuk Tey Seu Bock ahead of his World Championships debut.
The 21-year-old is also unfazed by the prospect of facing a higher-ranked opponent in the opening round, knowing the tournament features the world's best players.
"It's my first World Championships, so I'm really excited because it's one of the biggest tournaments in badminton. Right now, I'm just focused on my preparations and not thinking too much about the draw.
"Even if I face a top-ranked player in the first round, I don't mind. The best players in the world will all be there. I just want to be as prepared as possible and give my best performance," he said.
