Source: REUTERS/Hannah McKay
[Saba Sports News] American badminton women’s singles player Zhang Beiwen recently expressed her dissatisfaction with the Badminton World Federation (BWF) on social media, claiming that the BWF completely disregards the mental and psychological well-being of players. She shared her struggles as a self-funded athlete, emphasizing that every match feels like a battle fought alone. She often finds it difficult to get someone to help her warm up before competitions, and the BWF even rejected her doctor’s certificate without asking for clarification, as if her struggles were of no importance. Zhang Beiwen’s experiences have raised concerns about the BWF’s attention to the mental and psychological state of players. The author believes that the BWF should pay more attention to athletes’ mental health and provide better support and guarantees. Her predicament not only reflects the difficult situation of self-funded athletes but also highlights the BWF’s shortcomings in addressing athletes’ psychological and mental states. It is hoped that the BWF will take these issues seriously and provide athletes with a better competitive environment and support.