Brawling Thai badminton players suspended

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Two Olympic badminton players from Thailand who made headlines by fighting on the court last month have been suspended.

The Badminton World Federation says Bodin Issara will serve a two-year ban and Maneepong Jongjit three months.

The federation says Issara breached five sections of the players’ conduct code, including physical abuse. Jongjit broke three rules.

Issara and Jongjit were doubles partners at the 2012 London Olympics, then split in January. They opposed each other in new pairings at the Canada Open final, and brawled during a change of ends.

Issara chased Jongjit to a neighboring court, and repeatedly punched and kicked him. Issara needed two stitches for a cut and claimed Jongjit hit him with a racket.

They can appeal the bans, which apply from July 21.