Daijiworld Media Network - London

London, Mar 29: The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has cancelled a yellow card issued to Scotland’s Kirsty Gilmour after she was penalized for taking a bathroom break to manage her period during a match at the YONEX All England Open.

The three-time Olympian had urged rule changes after she was disciplined for leaving the court following her second-set win against world No.1 An Se Young. Gilmour, 31, said she was forced to request a break due to an unexpected early period, which was “reluctantly” granted. However, upon returning, she was shown a yellow card for “delaying play.”

In response to the controversy, BWF reviewed the decision and concluded that the match officials misapplied the rules. The yellow card has now been rescinded, with BWF Secretary General Thomas Lund clarifying that existing rules already permit toilet breaks during intervals.

Lund stated, “The laws of badminton allow players to leave the court for a toilet break during the two-minute interval. The delay occurred because the umpire initially denied Gilmour’s request, leading to an unfair penalty.”

Although the BWF dismissed the need for new regulations, Gilmour welcomed the reversal, hoping it sparks discussions on menstrual health in sports.

“I’m happy that BWF cancelled the yellow card and fine, but I hope this opens up conversations on empathy and understanding the challenges athletes with periods face,” Gilmour said.

The incident has reignited calls for more inclusive policies in sports, with Gilmour emphasizing the need for protocols that ensure dignity and fairness for menstruating athletes.