I don't know whether it is true that there was no major sponsor and the organizers lost money. What a shame if it is true.
not a bit surprised if that's true! badminton just can't seem to attract big corporate sponsors in usa not like here in asia or certain extent europe.
Correct me if I'm wrong, I think the only major sponsor is MAS (Malaysia Airlines). Others include Arrowhead Spring Water, Global Design, LA18 (Asian TV Channel), Chinese newspaper company, etc.
Even in Asia, it is a struggle to find big money. In Malaysia, some lousy golf tournament with hardly any world-class golfers can have more prize money than the Malaysian Open. For a badminton country like Malaysia, the open should be at least 5*, but all we get is 4*.
According to someone i know close to the SCBA and USA Badminton, if they will hold another major IBF event again in the U.S. and expect to use the same size hall, most likely they will get the same AC draft and court condition problem. Unfortunately, there are no playing arena(s) *big enough* like the Pond, that is/are built for a sport like badminton. The major halls/arenas in the U.S., esp. in L.A.(ie. Staples, Pond) will have the same problem. That's just the way it is here in the U.S. What is their solution then??....
Well, the solution has to come from the organizer, not us right ?????? Unless you don't mind to receive negative comments from the badminton fans / players about the ability of providing a good venue/ facility ....
just let the players concentrate fully on their games(not the draft), the fans watch with great support and passion and the organisers take care of the administrative,logistic and marketing aspects. Providing a suitable venue is also the most important aspect to the organiser.
Absolutely agreed with all your points ! Key factor here was players must not be working hard only to fight against the draught ! instead they should concentrate on their opponents strength & skill.. So...the draught was the main setback in this WC..:crying: