Geopolitical fireworks in the Middle East have thrown a wrench into PV Sindhu’s travel plans, leaving the ace Indian shuttler marooned at Dubai Airport. The two-time Olympian was set to jet off to Birmingham for the All England Badminton Championships when her flight was abruptly canceled amid the regional unrest.
The 28-year-old, celebrated for her Rio silver and Tokyo bronze, posted an Instagram story highlighting the pandemonium: packed terminals, frustrated travelers, and a simple caption declaring all flights suspended. Sindhu had chosen a morning departure to ensure timely arrival, but Iran’s threats following US-Israel strikes derailed everything.
BAI officials revealed they’re in constant touch with Emirates and Sindhu, working around the clock for alternatives. Meanwhile, compatriots like the dynamic duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty are already acclimatizing in Birmingham ahead of the marquee tournament at Utilita Arena from March 3 to 8.
This flare-up traces back to recent airstrikes on Iran, escalating fears of retaliatory actions against maritime routes in the Red Sea and beyond. Airlines worldwide are reeling, with Dubai’s massive hub shutting down operations and triggering a domino effect of cancellations for India-Europe and India-Africa flights.
Sindhu’s predicament shines a spotlight on how international conflicts ripple into sports arenas. As a former world No. 1 and All England medalist, her absence from early practice sessions could prove costly. Fans and officials alike are crossing fingers for a quick resolution, eager to see the badminton queen back in action where she belongs—on the court.