Badminton Star Kirsty Gilmour Penalized During Match for Period-Related Issue,Calls for Rule Change
British badminton player Kirsty Gilmour received a yellow card during a match after needing to address her period,sparking a debate adn call for revised regulations within the sport.
Kirsty Gilmour, a prominent Scottish badminton player with multiple European championship medals and a consistent presence in global rankings, recently experienced a frustrating and what she considers a misogynistic incident during a tournament in the United Kingdom.
The 31-year-old was competing against South Korean An Se-young, the world’s top-ranked player. Before the match, gilmour had indicated that she was dealing with her period, which had started a week prior. Despite the discomfort, she chose to proceed with the match in the spirit of competition. However,a sudden need to use the restroom became a point of contention.
Gilmour Urges International Badminton Federation to Reconsider Rules
After winning the second set, Gilmour requested a break from the umpire to “deal with the situation.” She stated that the request was granted, but reluctantly. Upon returning to the court, the umpire issued her a yellow card for “delaying the game,” claiming she exceeded the allotted two-minute break.
Gilmour ultimately lost the match (21-12, 16-21, 21-8).Following the match, she expressed her frustration, saying, “I wasn’t given a choice between ‘if you leave, you’ll get a yellow card’ and…”
What action does Kirsty Gilmour hope will result from bringing attention to her experiance,and who is the primary audience she is trying to influence with her call for change?
Badminton Star Kirsty Gilmour Penalized During Match for Period-Related Issue,Calls for Rule Change
British badminton player Kirsty Gilmour received a yellow card during a match after needing to address her period,sparking a debate adn call for revised regulations within the sport.
Kirsty Gilmour, a prominent Scottish badminton player with multiple European championship medals and a consistent presence in global rankings, recently experienced a frustrating and what she considers a misogynistic incident during a tournament in the United Kingdom.
The 31-year-old was competing against South Korean An Se-young, the world’s top-ranked player. Before the match, gilmour had indicated that she was dealing with her period, which had started a week prior. Despite the discomfort, she chose to proceed with the match in the spirit of competition. Though,a sudden need to use the restroom became a point of contention.
Gilmour Urges International Badminton Federation to Reconsider Rules
After winning the second set, Gilmour requested a break from the umpire to “deal with the situation.” she stated that the request was granted, but reluctantly.Upon returning to the court, the umpire issued her a yellow card for ”delaying the game,” claiming she exceeded the allotted two-minute break.
Gilmour ultimately lost the match (21-12, 16-21, 21-8).Following the match, she expressed her frustration, saying, “I wasn’t given a choice between ‘if you leave, you’ll get a yellow card’ and…”
Q&A: badminton Rules and Period-Related Issues
Q: What exactly happened to Kirsty Gilmour during the match?
A: Gilmour, experiencing period discomfort, needed to use the restroom during her match. Despite informing the umpire beforehand, she was given a yellow card for exceeding the allotted break time.
Q: What are the current rules regarding breaks in badminton?
A: According to Badminton World Federation (BWF) rules, a short break is allowed between games (e.g., to change equipment) and a coach can provide advice. Longer breaks are generally reserved for injuries or unforeseen circumstances.
Q: Has the Badminton World Federation (BWF) responded to Gilmour’s situation?
A: The article does not specify a response from the BWF. It is likely that with the recent attention on the issue, a response will be issued soon.
Q: What could a rule change look like?
A: A rule change might involve acknowledging period-related needs as a valid reason for a short break,similar to an injury timeout. This could include a designated time allowance or a clearer protocol for addressing such situations.
Q: Why is this considered a notable issue?
A: It highlights the need for sports to be inclusive and understanding of female athletes’ biological realities. it also raises questions about how existing rules are applied and interpreted.
Q: What can be done to improve this situation?
A: The BWF could work with medical professionals to develop guidelines about menstrual health in sport. Athletes could also be educated on how to navigate these situations.
kirsty Gilmour’s experience underscores the need for the BWF to review its regulations and create a more equitable surroundings for all athletes.
