PBSI Supports New BWF Format, Athlete Quality to Sportainment Among Reasons

The Central Board of the All Indonesia Badminton Association (PP PBSI) supports the implementation of the new tournament format released by the World Badminton Federation (BWF), including the Indonesia Open. This support positions Indonesia as one of the important pillars in the new direction of World Badminton development.

PP PBSI Head of Foreign Affairs Bambang Roedyanto stated that the new 11-day format of Indonesia Open as a Super 1000 level tournament isn't merely a technical change, but part of Indonesia's strategic commitment to BWF's global vision.

“From the organizer's perspective, implementing an 11-day duration will increase operational costs due to the extended event period,” Bambang said in an official statement in Jakarta on Tuesday.

Nevertheless, PBSI views this change as a crucial long-term step to maintain Indonesia Open's position at the pinnacle of the world badminton calendar.

“However, PBSI sees this as a long-term investment to preserve Indonesia Open's status as a premier global tournament while aligning organizational standards with BWF's global direction,” he added. 

From the competition aspect, Bambang believes the new format brings significant added value for athletes. The number of singles participants increases from 32 to 48 players, creating broader opportunities for athletes to compete at the highest level.

Athletes will also play more matches through the partial round-robin system until qualifying for the Round of 16.

PBSI also places great emphasis on athlete playing conditions and recovery. With longer tournament duration and only two competition courts, athletes enjoy more ideal rest periods.

Sufficient rest time is expected to maintain gameplay quality and athlete performance throughout the tournament.

Beyond the matches, future Indonesia Opens will also incorporate a Sportainment approach. 

This new format allows organizers to deliver richer viewing experiences both in the arena and through digital platforms.

“Sportainment becomes essential to provide more engaging viewing experiences for arena spectators and fans following via broadcasts and digital platforms,” said Bambang.

With PBSI's full support for BWF's new format, Indonesia Open is projected not just as an elite competition but also as a new benchmark for organizing world-class Badminton Tournaments.