Truly a Boomerang? The Spanish Badminton Federation Hopes the IOC Awards a Medal to Marin, But Precedent Set by Li Xuerui Stands in the Way

According to AS, following the withdrawal of Spanish badminton ace Carolina Marin due to injury, the Spanish Badminton Federation is in talks with the Olympic Committee, hoping for an exception that would see the star athlete awarded a medal or some form of recognition.

Marin was forced to withdraw from her match due to a sudden injury, leaving her in tears on the court. Her opponent, Chinese player He Bingjiao, advanced. On social media, led by Spanish Badminton Federation President Antonio, a petition campaign has been initiated, calling for the IOC to award Marin a bronze medal. Given the severity of Marin’s injury, it is unlikely she will be able to compete in the bronze medal match.

According to AS, the federation’s argument rests on the fact that in all international badminton competitions, including the European Championships and the World Cup, two bronze medals can be awarded, making this exception seem natural within the sport. However, the International Olympic Committee has not considered this option.

Previously, during the Rio Olympics women’s singles semifinal, Chinese player Li Xuerui suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament and had to withdraw from the match—her opponent at the time was Marin. After the match, Marin suggested that Li Xuerui’s injury was a “tactic to disrupt my rhythm,” which drew widespread criticism. Despite Marin’s apology after Li Xuerui’s injury was confirmed, it did little to quell the anger of Chinese netizens. Spanish media noted that Li Xuerui faced a similar situation to Marin’s and received no medal, suggesting that the Spanish Badminton Federation’s application is unlikely to succeed.