British shooter Rutter demands apology after controversial call ends Olympic gold medal bid

British shooter Amber Rutter has called for an apology from the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) after a controversial decision cost her a chance at Olympic gold in the women’s skeet final at the Paris 2024 Games.

Rutter, 26, was forced to settle for silver on August 4 after she was ruled to have missed a shot during the four-round shoot-off, despite television replays suggesting she had clipped the target. Despite protests from Rutter and her coach, the ruling stood, allowing Chile’s Francisca Crovetto Chadid to secure the gold medal.

In a statement posted on Instagram, Rutter expressed her frustration and called for improved judging or the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in shooting competitions. VAR is already used in other events overseen by the ISSF, but it was not implemented during the Olympic final.

Rutter emphasized the importance of a “fair playing field” and stated that while she does not expect immediate action, she believes accountability is necessary. She urged for an acknowledgment of the mistake and a plan to prevent similar issues in future competitions.

“Every athlete, especially at the Games, deserves to compete on a fair playing field,” Rutter wrote. “I do believe some accountability needs to be taken and an apology for the incorrect decision that ultimately cost me an opportunity of winning an Olympic gold medal.”

(Source: AFP)