BANGKOK — SEA Games athletics faced sharp criticism Sunday, December 14, after American-born Filipino thrower William Morrison III openly questioned the quality and consistency of officiating at the Suphachalasai National Stadium.

Morrison, who competed in the men’s shot put, expressed frustration over what he believed were questionable rulings and repeated interruptions that disrupted his rhythm and undermined the integrity of the competition.

Despite the issues, Morrison still secured a bronze medal with a throw of 16.66 meters, though he felt the circumstances prevented him from performing at his best.

Disruptions and equipment concerns

Morrison singled out equipment checks as a major source of contention, particularly the ruling that his personal shot put failed to meet weight requirements despite being used in multiple international competitions without issue.

He also took issue with officials stopping him mid-throw to address minor matters, arguing that such interruptions would never be allowed in other track and field events and unfairly affected his concentration.

Adding to his frustration, Morrison criticized the balance and condition of the provided shot puts, claiming the equipment was difficult to control and unsuitable for elite-level competition.

Record falls amid controversy

The competition also saw Morrison lose his SEA Games record of 18.14 meters, which he set during the 2021 edition in Vietnam.

Malaysia’s Jonah Chang Rigan claimed the gold medal with a record-breaking throw of 18.78 meters, surpassing Morrison’s previous mark and reshaping the regional standard.

While acknowledging the achievement, Morrison maintained that the overall experience left him deeply disappointed, labeling the Bangkok meet as the worst SEA Games of his career despite earning a spot on the podium.