The Ciputra Hanoi-Yonex Sunrise Vietnam International Challenge 2019 will kick off in Hanoi on April 9, heard a press conference on the badminton tourney held on April 2.

Vietnamese badminton players Do Tuan Duc and Pham Nhu Thao (L) triumphed at last year's tournament (Photo: thanhnien.vn)

The event is expected to draw 292 players from 18 countries and territories, including Australia, Canada, China, the UK, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Iran, the Republic of Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, the US, Mauritius and host Vietnam.

Outstanding contenders are Heo Kwang-he of the RoK (No.49 in the world) in the men’s singles; and Ayustine Dinar Dyah of Indonesia (No. 48) in the women’s singles.

Meanwhile, Thai players Viriyangkura Tanupat and Apisuk Inkarat are top seeds in the men’s doubles, while Do Tuan Duc and Pham Nhu Thao of Vietnam are viewed as prominent players in the mixed doubles.

According to the organisers, the event will provide an opportunity for athletes to sharpen their skills and gain experience. It also aims to promote images of the country to international friends.

The tournament will last until April 14.-VNA