Iraq Badminton Doubles Cup opens in Baghdad

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iraq Badminton Doubles Cup began on Monday in Baghdad, drawing athletes from clubs and sports organizations across the country. Matches are being held at the Tigris University College hall in the capital and will run through July 2, according to Iraq national badminton team coach Salah Mehdi. Mehdi said the Iraqi Badminton Federation invited all clubs and sports bodies to take part, with eligibility open to athletes aged 17 and older. Each club can field one or two teams across the men's, women's and mixed doubles categories. The tournament will skip a third-place match, with the two losing semifinalists sharing the bronze. Mehdi said the event is intended to identify emerging talent and prepare players for the national team.