Source: REUTERS/Arko Datta
[Saba Sports News] Tragically, 17-year-old Chinese badminton player Zhang Zhijie passed away while participating in the Asian Youth Championship in Indonesia. When Zhang Zhijie fell, the Chinese team coach rushed onto the field, but the on-duty referee prevented him from learning more about the athlete’s condition. The medical team present did not have an automated external defibrillator (AED) nor did they perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), wasting crucial minutes that could have potentially saved his life. The Indonesian Badminton Association stated that medical personnel must obtain permission from the referee to enter the field. This strict rule has faced criticism from many fans. In an effort to prevent similar incidents from happening again, the Japan Badminton Association recently convened a meeting to discuss and issue updated “Referee Rules and Code of Conduct.” These rules emphasize that if a player’s physical condition is noticed to be abnormal, the referee and coach must immediately interrupt the game. In case of an injured player losing consciousness, prompt assessment and understanding of the situation is necessary. Even during a competition, immediate treatment can be provided without waiting for a doctor’s arrival. If the player regains consciousness, the game can resume without penalties such as disqualification or forfeiture due to on-site first aid. The Japan Badminton Association’s prioritization of human life sets an example worth emulating for other badminton associations.