Players like Anders Antonsen have openly backed out, citing health concerns during winter months. Even though the tournament will return to January in 2028, this temporary move highlights how air quality is now influencing global sports calendars. For Indian athletes training in Delhi, it’s a reminder; pollution isn’t just an environmental issue, it’s a career risk too. If international stars are hesitant to compete here, what does that say about our city’s readiness for big events? The bigger picture? Even world-class sports can’t ignore our air.