Spectators watched in disbelief as four women’s doubles pairs – from China, South Korea and Indonesia – appeared to try to lose the badminton match last night, possibly in an attempt to meet more favourable opponents in the draw.
The Badminton World Federation (BWF) launched disciplinary proceedings following the outcry after the match and it is now being reported by The Telegraph that all eight women involved will be thrown out of the Olympics.
The players have been charged with attempting to throw their matches after the federation decided that as well as a “not using best efforts” charge, the players could also be accused of “conducting oneself in a manner that is clearly abusive or detrimental to the sport”.
Earlier today, London 2012 chairman Lord Coe called the situation “depressing” and spectators have been demanding their money back from LOGOC.
“Depressing. Who wants to sit through something like that,” Coe said.
However LOCOG said it would not refund tickets for the matches.
Meanwhile, Chinese men’s singles champion Lin Dan has spoken out, saying that the “throwing” tactics were against the Olympic spirit.
“I think it will definitely bring a negative impact, because all of these fans came to watch this tournament,” he said.
China’s team have denied any wrongdoing, claiming the players were simply trying to conserve their strength for the finals.
