The Hindu : Sport / Badminton : Shuttlers to get equal prize money

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Sunday, Jan 13, 2008
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Shuttlers to get equal prize money

BANGALORE: The World Badminton Federation (WBF) has announced equal prize money for both men and women players in the Super Series, Grands Prix and other international open tournaments.

The long awaited decision was made by the WBF at Kuala Lumpur on Thursday and it means that Zhou Lin of China and Peter Gade of Denmark, if they retain their singles titles at the Proton Malaysia Open next week, will each receive an identical $15,000 (first prize).

Anne Smillie, Chairman, WBF Sports Committee, said: “It’s long overdue. They do it in tennis with even Wimbledon falling into line with other Grand Slam events last year.

“So it’s only right that badminton offers parity, especially now that matches are contested over the same best-of-three games to 21 points in the men’s and women’s game and there is parity in doubles events as well.”

The WBF decision also signalled the reduction of prize money for men’s singles and men’s doubles winners. — Special Correspondent

Smillie added: “I accept that it is a slight reduction for men’s singles and men’s doubles, but it is an increase for the other three events.

“The WBF think that is the right way to go and I hope the players agree. We want this to benefit all players.”

Bobby Milroy, President, Badminton Players’ Federation, welcomed equal prize money, saying: “The players’ federation has been working for two years to pass a policy of gender equality in badminton.” — Special Correspondent

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