President Kang Young-Joong in a chat with espnstar.com

Q: Some top players think that hosting the World Championships every year is taking the sheen out of the event. What do you have to say on that?

A: I don't think so, because athletes are getting more opportunities to improve their skills this way. To have the event every year is not a bad idea. And, then only the popularity of this game will also increase quickly.

Q: Only 45 countries are participating in such a big tournament. Any plans to expand?

A: We are certainly working on that. The expansion is very important to gain popularity. We understand that it is a big challenge for us. Our events committee is leaving no stone unturned on that. We are getting good response from all the countries and very soon many more countries will join the game.

Q: Some players also feel that the old system was better than the new rally system. What's your take on that?

A: Again, it is some players' opinion. But, I reckon that rally system is more appropriate. It attracts more crowds, which is equally important. I think it also gives the badminton lovers more enjoyment.

Q: Are you happy with the development of the sport?

A: We still need to make a lot of efforts to take this game to all places. We of course, have been working pretty hard on that. And we hope badminton becomes No. 1 in all racquet sports.

Q: Any plans to follow tennis structure, like that of Grand Slams, in badminton?

A: Yes, we are very keen on doing that. We are trying to negotiate the same with the professional management companies and it won't be long before we have such a structure in badminton as well.

Q: How does it feel to be in Hyderabad?

A: I am very much delighted to be in Hyderabad. I am really enjoying my stay here. Having been here for some days, I have realised that there were some unnecessary fears. The tournament has been very well organised. The security has been fantastic.