USA TAEKWONDO STRENGTHENS EVENT STANDARDS: RESPECT, SAFETY AND FAIR PLAY
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by USA Taekwondo
USA Taekwondo Strengthens Event Standards: Respect, Safety, and Fair Play
The 2025 USA Taekwondo National Championships in California was one of the most well-attended, exciting, and memorable Nationals in decades. Athletes, coaches, referees, and spectators came together to create unforgettable moments, and we thank everyone who contributed to the respectful, sportsmanlike, and celebratory atmosphere that made the event so special.
Unfortunately, a small number of individuals engaged in behavior wholly inappropriate for any sporting event - and especially unacceptable when directed at young athletes. Following the conclusion of the Youth Male Poomsae division, some members of the crowd expressed displeasure in a manner that crossed the line from passion into disrespect:
- Medal presentation: A group of adults followed the young athlete to the awards area and loudly booed and heckled the winning athlete as he received his medal. This was witnessed by multiple USA Taekwondo staff members, referees, and State Presidents.
- After the event: The youth athlete received abusive text messages to his personal phone - these messages constituted harassment, bullying, and emotionally abusive behavior towards a minor.
- Online activity: USATKD has received numerous reports including emails, screenshots, videos, and social media posts revealing additional bullying, harassment, and targeted behavior.
If USA Taekwondo can definitively identify the individuals responsible for the misconduct outlined above, disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with our policies, along with requests for action from the U.S. Center for SafeSport. Those individuals will no longer be welcome to participate in or attend any USA Taekwondo events.
Such actions are deeply concerning and entirely out of line with the values of our sport. To prevent these behaviors from recurring, USA Taekwondo is reinforcing our commitment to three core principles: Respect, Safety, and Fair Play. These are the foundations of every USATKD sanctioned competition and the standard we expect from all participants and spectators.
RESPECT:
USA Taekwondo encourages a passionate, highly competitive environment where spectators cheer loudly, and athletes push their limits. But that passion must always be expressed respectfully. While most of the taekwondo community upheld this standard, the incident and actions described above fell far short. We are not looking to restrict the audience's right to express displeasure, but will insist that it does not cross the line into becoming abusive towards any individual.
To ensure that USATKD competition spaces remain places of encouragement, positivity, and sportsmanship for athletes, families, and fans alike, USATKD is finalizing a formal Spectator Code of Conduct, to be adopted and enforced at all sanctioned events. Once published it will be enforced at all USATKD operated and sanctioned events.
SAFETY:
Our commitment to athlete well-being extends far beyond the mat. Safety is our top priority!
USA Taekwondo has a Zero Tolerance Policy for abuse of any kind. Any action that threatens the emotional or physical safety of participants has no place in our sport. USA Taekwondo adheres to the U.S. Center for SafeSport Code, which prohibits:
- Emotional Misconduct
- Physical Misconduct
- Bullying
- Hazing
- Harassment
The U.S. Center for SafeSport and USATKD provide education, training and resources for athletes, coaches and parents.
We encourage all members to take an active role in maintaining safe environments, both in person and online, so that every competitor, especially our youngest athletes can focus on developing their skills in a supportive atmosphere.
FAIR PLAY:
Taekwondo is more than competition – it is a discipline rooted in fairness, respect and integrity. Our referees and event staff work diligently to apply rules fairly and consistently, ensuring a level playing field for all athletes.
It is every participant’s responsibility to be familiar with and follow the rules so that competition proceeds smoothly and respectfully for all involved.
To support this, USA Taekwondo offers the following resources:
U.S. Center for SafeSport Website
U.S. Center for SafeSport Code
Report a Concern to the U.S. Center for SafeSport
USA Taekwondo Social Media Comment Policy
MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER:
As we look ahead to future events, USA Taekwondo reaffirms our commitment to fostering a community where Respect, Safety and Fair Play are not just expected, but upheld by all.
We appreciate all members of the taekwondo community who uphold these values, and we encourage everyone to remain committed to fostering a positive, respectful and safe environment at every event.
