Lydia Ko, Golf's world No. 3 is being applauded for unhesitatingly mentioning that she was on her period when asked about her tight back. The interviewer was found to be surprised by her straightforwardness.
During the final round of the Palos Verdes Championship, her physical therapist Chris Wicker was seen giving her treatment for a tight back. When the round was completed and she posted a one-under 70 to come tied for third, she was asked by a reporter Jerry Foltz about the treatment she was receiving and if it’s something that can be long-lasting.
Ko wittingly said, “I hope not,” and went on to clarify, “It's that time of the month.” She added unabashedly, “I know the ladies watching are probably like: 'Yeah, I got you.' So, when that happens, my back gets really tight, and I'm all twisted. It's not the first time that Chris (Wicker) has seen me twisted, but it felt a lot better after he came. So, yeah, there you go.”
While conversations around periods are often stigmatised, in the sports industry, it is an even bigger concern. Foltz had not anticipated Ko’s answer and while he fumbled for a correct response, he chose to go with “thanks”.
Ko was able to cut through the awkwardness with a confident smile and said, “I know you're at a loss for words, Jerry. Honesty it is.”
Her openness about menstruating garnered her a lot of praise on the internet as people are appreciating how she unapologetically decided to not shy away from this supposedly taboo topic. She didn’t refrain from mentioning it just because the other person may feel uncomfortable. The onus of correcting their mindset and comfort levels falls on society.
According to a recent study by Puma and ModiBodi, three in five teens ditch sports due to the fear of leaking or being period-shamed. Ko, coming forward to openly, unapologetically talking about it will inspire many girls to do the same while pushing our society to destigmatise the subject.
Image courtesy: CNN