Source: Visual China Group/VCG
[Saba Sports News] After the retirement of the Chinese pair Huang Yaqiong/Zheng Siwei, the South Korean duo Seo Seung Jae/Chae Yu Jung, the Thai pair Dechapol Puavaranukroh/Sapsiree Taerattanachai, and the Japanese pair Yuta Watanabe/Arisa Higashino disbanded, the current mixed doubles scene lacks a dominant combination, creating great opportunities for other pairs. Just before the 2024 Paris Olympics, Danish player Mathias Christiansen, who was suspended for violating anti-doping rules, returned to the Danish badminton team for training on May 22, and will make his comeback with partner Alexandra Boje at the Macau Open on July 22, aiming for good results at the World Championships in August. Ten days before the Paris Olympics opening, the top Danish mixed doubles pair announced their withdrawal due to Christiansen’s third violation of anti-doping whereabouts reporting regulations. According to the International Anti-Doping Agency, athletes at the top level must report their daily whereabouts accurately within three months of the Olympics. If they miss three times, they face suspension. Christiansen was ultimately banned for one year starting from July 21, 2024.