The annual event will attract 310 domestic and foreign athletes from 19 countries and territories worldwide to compete in five categories, including the men's and women's singles and doubles, as well as mixed doubles.

Among leading Vietnamese players will be Le Duc Phat, Nguyen Hai Dang, Vu Thi Anh Thu, and Vu Thi Trang.

The tournament will also attract many world athletes, including world No. 76 Rhusta Vito Shesar Hiren of Indonesia, world No. 78 Shetty Ayush of India, world No. 55 Letsthana Karupahthevan of Malaysia, and No. 39 Sim Yu Jin of the Republic of Korea.

At a press conference held on March 6, Pham Xuan Tai, deputy director of Hanoi’s Department of Culture and Sports, said that the tournament, the 13th this year, has quickly got a reputation as a prestigious event in Asia.

All matches will be supervised by 15 international referees.

The week-long tournament is expected to offer Vietnamese and international athletes the opportunity to sharpen their skills, accumulate points in the world’s rankings, and prepare for global competitions.

The Vietnam Challenge is one of three international tournaments held in Vietnam. It is an official event of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) where players will earn points for their world rankings.

In this year’s edition, a total bonus of US$15,000 will be delivered to medal winners, of which the champions will take US$1,200. Second, third, and fourth-placed winners will be awarded US$720, US$300, and US$120, respectively.

VOV