World Badminton Day: ‘Idols Inspire Us to Work Hard’
Events in Indonesia have acquired a well-earned reputation for fans lavishing their love on players. Long lines of fans patiently waiting to get into the stadium even on opening day are a familiar sight, as are the…
· BWF STAFF
Events in Indonesia have acquired a well-earned reputation for fans lavishing their love on players. Long lines of fans patiently waiting to get into the stadium even on opening day are a familiar sight, as are the throngs waiting to catch a glimpse of their favourite stars as they walk off the arena.
Fans spend a lot of time and effort in hoping to get an autograph or a selfie with their favourite players. But what explains this unconditional love?
“Badminton unites us as Indonesians. When I watch badminton I feel like all of us Indonesians are supporting the country,” said one such fan, Penny, who had waited patiently for her turn to get pictures with two of her favourite players, Liliyana Natsir and Tai Tzu Ying. "Of course I like players of other countries too, but only after the Indonesian players.