[Saba Sports News] A massive fire recently broke out at the badminton venue constructed for the 2004 Athens Olympics, leaving the $23 million facility severely damaged. According to AFP, the blaze erupted on July 12 at the former Olympic venue in Goudi Park. Flames quickly engulfed the building’s structure, causing partial roof collapse and extensive structural damage. Greece’s fire service dispatched around 40 firefighters and 13 fire engines to tackle the blaze. Firefighters battled through the night and finally brought the fire under control in the early hours of Monday, July 13. Authorities confirmed there were no reported injuries, and the Athens Fire Investigation Department is still probing the cause of the fire. The venue holds precious memories for badminton fans. Back at the 2004 Athens Olympics, Indonesian legend Taufik Hidayat defeated South Korea’s Shon Seung Mo here to claim the men’s singles gold medal, thrilling thousands of spectators in attendance. Following the Olympic Games, the venue was renovated into a badminton theatre, hosting private concerts and various performances.
The editor believes that this is not the first Olympic venue to suffer such a fate. Back in April 2026, the roof of the Rio Olympic Velodrome also caught fire. Nearly 80 firefighters and 20 fire engines were deployed to put out the blaze. Though part of the roof sustained damage, the main cycling track inside and exhibits in the Olympic Museum were left intact.