A 68-year-old pétanque player has died after being struck in the head by a metal boule during a match in the south of France. French police have launched an investigation into what local officials are calling a ‘freak accident’.
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon in the village of Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, a picturesque coastal town known for its lively pétanque courts. The victim, identified only as Jean-Pierre M., was competing in a friendly doubles match when a misplaced throw allegedly struck him square on the temple. He collapsed immediately and died at the scene, despite the efforts of paramedics.
No foul play is suspected, but sources close to the investigation say authorities are examining whether any negligence contributed to the tragedy. The boule in question, a 700-gram steel ball, was reportedly thrown with considerable force by an opponent attempting to knock an opponent's boule out of the scoring zone. The throw went wild, leaving the victim with no time to react.
Pétanque, a variant of boules, is a beloved pastime across France, particularly among the elderly. The sport is generally considered low-risk, though injuries from misdirected throws are not unheard of. ‘This is a terrible shock for our community,’ said local pétanque club president Marcel Dubois. ‘We have never seen anything like this. Jean-Pierre was a well-known player. He will be missed.’
The death has reignited debate over safety in the sport. Some are calling for mandatory headgear, while others insist the risk is minimal and such measures would change the character of the game. The French Pétanque Federation has issued a statement expressing condolences and promising a review of safety guidelines.
For now, the courts remain empty. A makeshift shrine of flowers and boules has appeared at the scene. The investigation continues, with police awaiting the results of an autopsy to confirm the exact cause of death. It may be classified as accidental, but in a nation that takes its boules seriously, there will be no shortage of soul-searching. Play on. But mind your head.
