Rashid Sidek not in favour of 'longer tournaments'
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Rashid Sidek feels that the idea of increasing Super 1000 tournaments from six days to 11 will not necessarily reduce the physical and mental stress of shuttlers.
In fact, the former Olympic bronze medallist feels that the players will be saddled with more financial burden if BWF implements the format in 2027 as not all the top 15 singles and top 10 pairs enjoy lucrative sponsorships.
Rashid said the current six-day competition format should be maintained if the world body is to safeguard player welfare.
"I feel it's pointless to increase to 11 days because this will put more financial burden on the players. They have to fork out more for accomodation and food," said Rashid.
"We have to remember that not all players get big sponsorships. The top eight in singles and doubles may enjoy financial security, but the rest will struggle.
"Tennis grand slams are held for two weeks because they have over seven rounds and matches can last for five hours.
"Let's not talk about the prize money because there is a huge difference between the Grand Slams and badminton's Super 1000 events."
The Wimbledon, for example, offered a jaw-dropping £3 million (RM17.17m) for the men's singles champion this year while the men's singles winner of the China Open, a Super 1000 event, received US$140,000 (RM595,488).
Rashid believes lengthy Super 1000 tournaments may satisfy fans, boost ticket sales and leading to more live coverage, but it will be a burden for the organisers as well.
"The organising costs of Super 1000 events will also increase and some countries may find it harder to host big World Tour events.
"However, increasing the prize money should help the players earn more, and they will not be tempted to play in too many events," added Rashid.
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