Badminton is a game that originated in ancient India and was known as “Pune”. British officers serving in India became familiar with the game and brought it to the UK. In 1873, the first organized competition for the game was held at the Duke of Beaufort’s estate in Badminton, England. Since then, the sport has received its present name.
Basic rules of badminton
Badminton is a dynamic and strategic game that requires high speed and accuracy from the players. The basic rules of badminton define the structure of the game and how it is played. The highlights of the badminton rules include:
| Site and equipment | The dimensions of the court are 13.4 meters long and 6.1 meters wide for single games, 13.4 meters long and 5.18 meters wide for doubles. The net is set at a height of 1.55 meters at the edges and 1.524 meters in the center. The shuttlecock is made of feathers or synthetic materials and weighs about 5 grams. |
| Game process | The game starts with a low serve, the shuttlecock must cross the net and land within the opponent’s court. The match consists of three games up to 21 points, the winner of the game is the first player to score 21 points with a difference of 2 points. Players change sides after each game and in the third game when one player reaches 11 points. |
| Violations and penalties | Fouls. Serving above the waist, the shuttlecock hits the net or goes out of the court. A serve is repeated if the shuttlecock hits the net and falls into the correct area, or in case of interfering circumstances. |
Famous badminton players
Badminton has given the world many outstanding athletes whose achievements inspire the younger generation. Among them are legends who have achieved worldwide recognition through their skill and perseverance. These include:
- Lin Dan (China). Two-time Olympic champion (2008, 2012); five-time world champion (2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013). Known for his incredible speed and accuracy of his punches;
- Lee Chong Wei (Malaysia). Three-time Olympic silver medalist (2008, 2012, 2016), four-time Asian champion (2006, 2012, 2013, 2016). One of the most consistent and consistent players in badminton history;
- Carolina Marin (Spain). Olympic champion in 2016, three-time world champion (2014, 2015, 2018). An example of how perseverance and training can lead to the pinnacle of success.
World вadminton сhampionships
The Badminton World Championships is one of the most prestigious competitions in the world of badminton, organized by the Badminton World Federation (BWF). The first World Championships was held in 1977 in Sweden. Since then, it has been held annually (except during Olympic years), attracting the best players from all over the world. The tournament structure includes:
- Categories. Singles and doubles for men and women, as well as mixed doubles;
- Qualifying stages. Players qualify through qualifying tournaments and place in the BWF rankings to qualify for the championships;
- Conduct System. The tournament is played according to the Olympic system, where a loss means elimination from the competition.