Tickets on sale for world badminton championships

Tickets are now on sale for the Sudirman Cup to be played on the Gold Coast in May 2017.

Tourism and Major Events Minister Kate Jones said 1500 of the world best badminton players would descend on the Gold Coast for the world mixed-team badminton championships.

“Securing the Sudirman Cup is a major coup for the Gold Coast, further showcasing our state as a major sporting event destination,” Ms Jones said.

“The Gold Coast will be the first city outside Europe and Asia to host the Cup, which will be a massive drawcard for thousands of visitors from our major international markets.

“1,500 players from 180 countries will be participating in the tournament, which will be played at the new Carrara Sports and Leisure Centre.

“We expect the Cup to deliver a $10 million economic boost to the city.”

Ms Jones said the Sudirman Cup was a great marketing opportunity for the Gold Coast.

“With a global audience of more than 400 million, this will be a great opportunity to promote the city before the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games,” she said.

“Securing events like the Sudirman Cup is part of our plan to grow the tourism industry across Queensland.

“Not only do events attract visitors from interstate and overseas, they help market our state to new audiences.”

Badminton Australia Board member and Tournament Director Loke Poh Wong said badminton was the second most popular sport in the world behind soccer.

“Badminton has a huge profile globally and we’re pleased to see it growing in popularity in Australia,” he said.

“With internationally renowned players like Lin Dan from China, a two time Olympic Gold Medallist and Saina Nehwal from India, who has a huge following of more than 7.7 million on Facebook, set to compete next year, we will be able to put the spotlight on badminton, and the beautiful Gold Coast.

“In their home countries they are like rock stars, but when they come to the Gold Coast they will be able to enjoy the beaches and other attractions without being mobbed.

“It’s a nice change of pace.”

For more information and tickets please visit: www.sudirmancup.com.au

Media: 3719 7530