All England Open must get 'top-tier' status, says leading official

Adrian Christy, the national governing body's chief executive, believes that change is necessary to revive a dwindling format but said it would be "hugely disappointing for us and the popularity of the Super Series" if the All England Open, which marks its 100th edition in Birmingham next week, fails to make it to top-tier status.

Under a three-year proposal, tier one would consist of four events with a minimum $400,000 in prize money while tier two would have eight tournaments.

The Badminton World Federation hopes to combat late withdrawals ¨C mainly from China's top players ¨C from its end-of-year Super Series finals by offering world ranking points for qualifiers.

Christy said: "The sport is crying out for this change and is an absolute must. We are behind it and the Super Series has gained momentum in recent years.

"But it would be hugely disappiointing for us and the popularity of the Super Series [if the All England missed out]. The top events have to be there and the All England is the one the top players always want to win."

Source from Telegraph.co.uk

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