Badminton Star Kirsty Gilmour Penalized During match Due to Period,Sparks Outrage and Calls for Rule Change
Scottish badminton star Kirsty Gilmour received a yellow card for “delaying the game” after needing to address her period during a match against South korea’s An Se-young. The incident has ignited a debate about menstruation in sports and prompted calls for a review of current regulations.
Gilmour Faces Unfair Penalty After On-Court Menstruation Issue
The incident occurred during a tournament in the United Kingdom in late March.Gilmour, 31, has stated she had told the umpire before the match that she was on her period. During the match, after winning the second set, Gilmour requested a toilet break to manage her period, which she says was granted reluctantly. Upon returning to the court, she was penalized with a yellow card for exceeding the allotted two-minute break time.
Player Speaks Out Against “Unfair” Treatment
Gilmour, a multi-time European Championship medalist, ultimately lost the match (21-12, 16-21, 21-8), but was understandably upset by the situation. She voiced her frustration, stating she was not properly informed of the consequences of taking a break to address her needs, leaving her feeling as though she had to choose between a penalty or playing while actively menstruating. “I wasn’t given the choice between ‘If you leave, you’ll get a yellow card’ and ‘if you stay, you’ll bleed on the court, but you won’t get a yellow card’,” she explained.
Calls for International Badminton Federation to Reconsider Rules
The controversial penalty has sparked widespread criticism and fueled discussions about the need for more inclusive and understanding policies regarding menstruation in sports. Many are now urging the International Badminton Federation to review its rules and implement changes that better accommodate female athletes’ needs.
Beyond badminton, what broader systemic changes are needed in sports to better support female athletes’ health needs and prevent similar incidents?
Badminton Star Kirsty Gilmour Penalized During match Due to Period,Sparks Outrage and Calls for rule Change
Scottish badminton star Kirsty Gilmour received a yellow card for “delaying the game” after needing to address her period during a match against South korea’s An Se-young. The incident has ignited a debate about menstruation in sports and prompted calls for a review of current regulations.
Gilmour Faces Unfair Penalty After On-Court Menstruation Issue
The incident occurred during a tournament in the United Kingdom in late March.Gilmour, 31, has stated she had told the umpire before the match that she was on her period. during the match, after winning the second set, Gilmour requested a toilet break to manage her period, which she says was granted reluctantly. Upon returning to the court, she was penalized with a yellow card for exceeding the allotted two-minute break time.
Player Speaks Out Against “Unfair” Treatment
Gilmour,a multi-time European Championship medalist,ultimately lost the match (21-12,16-21,21-8),but was understandably upset by the situation. She voiced her frustration, stating she was not properly informed of the consequences of taking a break to address her needs, leaving her feeling as though she had to choose between a penalty or playing while actively menstruating. “I wasn’t given the choice between ‘if you leave, you’ll get a yellow card’ and ‘if you stay, you’ll bleed on the court, but you won’t get a yellow card’,” she explained.
Calls for International Badminton Federation to Reconsider Rules
The controversial penalty has sparked widespread criticism and fueled discussions about the need for more inclusive and understanding policies regarding menstruation in sports.Many are now urging the International Badminton Federation to review its rules and implement changes that better accommodate female athletes’ needs.
Q&A: Navigating Menstruation in Badminton
Q: What exactly happened to Kirsty Gilmour?
A: During a match, Gilmour needed a bathroom break to manage her period. After the break, she was penalized with a yellow card for taking longer than the allotted time.
Q: What are the current rules regarding break times in badminton?
A: Typically, players are allowed a short break between sets. The exact time can vary depending on the tournament rules, but it’s usually a couple of minutes. There are no specific rules accommodating for menstrual needs.
Q: How did Gilmour react to the penalty?
A: She expressed feeling unfairly treated, highlighting the lack of choice between a penalty and playing while menstruating. She emphasized that the situation left her upset.
Q: What are the arguments for changing the rules?
A: Critics argue that current rules don’t account for female athletes’ biological needs, advocating for more inclusive policies and understanding.They believe that a more flexible approach is needed to accommodate menstruation.
Q: What can female athletes do to manage their periods during matches?
A: Athletes often rely on various methods like using tampons or menstrual cups. Some athletes may also use pain relievers or hormonal birth control to manage their periods. Pre-planning and communication with the referee are also significant.
Q: Has this happened in other sports?
A: Yes, similar situations have arisen in other sports. Discussions about menstruation in sports are becoming more common, as athletes advocate for better support.
Q: What’s the next step?
A: The International Badminton Federation (IBF) is urged to review and revise the rules to better accommodate female athletes’ needs,ensuring fairness and understanding.
This incident highlights the urgent need for the IBF to address these concerns and implement policies that support all athletes. Join the conversation and help promote change!
