Three Indonesian Badminton Players Banned for Life in Match-Fixing Scandal

^{Pictured: Disqualified player, Androw Yunanto}

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has dropped the hammer on three Indonesian badminton players, issuing them lifetime disqualifications for their involvement in match-fixing activities. In addition to this, five other players from the same country have been handed suspensions, ranging from 2 to 8 years, for their participation in the same illicit activities.

Hendra Tandjaya, a competitor in both doubles and mixed doubles categories, is identified as the main orchestrator of these illegal activities. From 2014 to 2017, Tandjaya not only participated in but also arranged for others to engage in fixed matches. His accomplices in these activities were Ivandi Danang and Androw Yunanto. Furthermore, Tandjaya and Danang violated BWF rules by placing bets on badminton matches.

It’s important to note that these match-fixing incidents weren’t confined to Indonesia. They also occurred at various international tournaments, including the Scottish Open Grand Prix, the US Open Grand Prix, and the Sky City New Zealand Open.

As a consequence of their actions, Tandjaya, Ivandi, and Yunanto have received lifetime bans from the BWF.

Five other badminton players were found guilty of agreeing to participate in fixed matches at Tandjaya’s behest. The investigation into the case was initiated following a report from a player who had declined these questionable offers.

Interestingly, the BWF has criticized the Indonesian Badminton Association for its lackluster handling of the investigation. The association failed to provide contacts for some of the suspects, and one of them was even allowed to continue participating in tournaments despite having been notified by the BWF about the charges against them.