Saina Nehwal's serve

Badminton Service Rules – All You Need to Know

As you all know all racquet sports including badminton, tennis, and squash have service or serve rules as it form a crucial part of the player’s drill. Here’s how it works in badminton. 

The starting point of any badminton match, the service or the serve of the shuttlecock is an art itself. In the intricate game of badminton, the serve is a crucial strategic element that sets the tone of the entire rally. 

Top players often opt for a short backhand serve to get things going, while there are some players to name a few, PV Sindhu prefers a powerful forehand serve that forces her opponents to scramble to the baseline. Left-handed players like Carolina Marin and World Champion Kento Momota bring an added layer of complexity to their serves making it tough for the opponents to anticipate the trajectory of Shuttlecock. 

While the serve may not be as game-changing as it is in tennis but it remains a vital component of a Badminton player’s overall strategy.  

To maintain the spirit of the game and upholding its integrity, Badminton World Federation (BWF) has established a set of service rules for both singles and doubles in Men’s and Women’s categories. 

Let’s dive into the service rules of badminton every player must know of.

  • A correct service is when a player hits a shuttlecock with their racket properly over the net to the opponent’s side without the shuttle getting stuck in the net or exceeding the boundaries of the court with some part of the server’s and the receiver’s feet connected with the court surface. 
  • In a correct service, when both the players are ready, the server should initiate the serve by moving the head of the racket forward, marking the start of the service. It’s essential for the server to avoid any unnecessary delays once both players are prepared, ensuring a smooth and timely start to the rally. 
  • The server shall not serve before the receiver is ready. However, the receiver shall be considered to have been ready if a return of the service is attempted. 
  • If the server’s shuttle goes out of bounds of the court the receiving player or side wins the point. 
  • During the serve when the server hits the shuttlecock, the whole shuttle shall be below the server’s waist at the instant of being hit by the server’s racket. The waist shall be considered to be an imaginary line round the body, level with the lowest part of the server’s bottom rib. 
  • When both the players are ready, the server should initiate the serve by moving the head of the racket forward, marking the start of the service. It’s essential for the server to avoid any unnecessary delays once both players are prepared, ensuring a smooth and timely start to the rally. 
  • Both the server and the receiver should stand diagonally on opposite sides of the court without touching the boundary lines. 
  • A coin toss is done in a badminton match before the play to determine the server, and whichever player or the side scores a point shall become the server for the subsequent point. 

Let’s have a look at the singles and the doubles serving rules in badminton – 

Young woman playing badminton at gym

Singles service Rules in Badminton

  1. The player who serves first in any game will serve from the right side of the service court on which they will play the match. 
  2. The players shall serve from and receive in, their respective right service courts when the server has not scored or has scored an even number of points in that game. 
  3. Vice versa, the players shall serve from and receive in, their respective left service courts when the server has not scored or has scored an odd number of points in that game. 
  4. If the server wins a rally the server shall score a point. The server shall then serve again from the alternative service court.
  5. If the receiver wins the rally, the receiver shall score a point. The receiver then shall become the new server.

Doubles Service Rules in Badminton 

The doubles service rules in badminton are slightly more complicated in the BWF’s laws. 

  1. A player of the serving side shall serve from the right service court when the serving side has not scored or has scored an even number of points in that game. 
  2. A player of the serving side shall serve from the left service court when the serving side has scored an odd number of points in that game. 
  3. The player of the receiving side who served last shall stay in the same service court from where he served last. The reverse pattern shall apply to the receiver’s partner
  4. The receiver must stand on the alternate service court and the pair who wins the point shall become the server for the subsequent point.

The right to serve in badminton doubles are as follows: 

  • From the initial server who started the game from the right service court. 
  • To the partner of the initial receiver. 
  • To the partner of the initial server. 
  • To the initial receiver. 
  • To the initial server and so on.

No player shall serve or receive out of turn, or receive two consecutive services in the same game. 

Either player of the winning side may serve first in the next game, and either player of the losing side may receive first in the next game.

The service court error occurs when a player serves or receives out of turn or from the incorrect service court. If a service court error is detected, the mistake will be corrected and the current score will remain unchanged. 

A point is scored when the teams win the rally regardless of whether they are the serving or receiving side. A rally ends when the shuttlecock touches the ground, hits the net or goes out of bounds of the court then the shuttlecock is no longer in play and the team that wins the rally earns the point. 

The first side to reach 21 points, with a two-point difference, wins the game and a match consists of three games.

The sides are required to change sides after each game, and any player from the winning side can serve in the next game, and similarly, any player from the losing side can receive in the next game.

Birdies and Basics: Your Ultimate Beginners Guide to Badminton

Before going deep into the guide of badminton, let’s take some time out to understand badminton as a sport and its origin.

To give a gist, badminton is a racquet sport which is usually played in singles or doubles versions between two or four players. Hitting a shuttlecock over a net and into the court of the opposition is the goal and points are awarded when the other team fails to return the shuttlecock correctly.

A comprehensive and ultimate guide to Badminton

1. Origin

The game known today as badminton originated from battledore and shuttlecock played in ancient Greece, which was later played in India by British colonialists in the mid-19th century as the name ‘Poona’ with a bit of their own modifications. 

Origin of Badminton

It soon became popular with the elite, and its immense popularity led to the formation of the Badminton Association of England in 1893. The rules of the game were formalized. BAE organized the first All England Open Badminton Championship in 1899, and it remains one of the most prestigious tournaments in the sport till date.

The International Badminton Federation (now the Badminton World Federation) was founded in 1934 by nine founding members: Canada, Denmark, England, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Scotland and Wales For the development of the sport internationally.

At the 1972 Munich Olympics, badminton made its debut as a demonstration sport. It wasn’t until 1992, at the Barcelona Games, that badminton was recognized as an official Olympic sport. Since then, singles, doubles, and mixed doubles competitions have been included in every Summer Olympics.

2. Basic rules and gameplay

Toss: A coin toss determines who or which team will serve first and from which side they will start.

Serve: The server must hit the shuttlecock (usually known as a birdie) from below the waist height, sending it diagonally into the opponent’s service box. The players must remain stationary until the serve is made. As long as the player keeps winning points consecutively they retain their serve. 

Scoring: All the matches be it singles or doubles are in the format of best-of-three games. The first side to 21 points wins the game. A point is scored on every serve and rewarded to whichever team wins the rally. Next serve goes to the winning side.

If the score is 20-20, a side must win by two clear points to win the game. If it reaches 29-29, the first to get their 30th point wins.

Change of end: In badminton, players are required to change ends under specific conditions. They should change ends at the conclusion of the first game. If a third game is required, they should also change ends at the end of the second game. In the third game, the change of ends occurs when one side reaches a score of 11 points.

3. Court dimensions

Badminton court dimension for singles is 13.41m (44ft) long and 5.18m (17ft) wide. During doubles, the width extends to 6.1m (20ft). The net is 1.55m (5ft 1in) high at the ends and 1.52m high (5ft) where it dips in the middle. Each service court (four in total) is 3.96m (13ft) long and 2.59m (8.5ft) wide.

          

 

4. Playing strategies

Singles: Requires strategic shot placement, particularly aiming to displace the opponent and create openings on the court. The player must try to exploit any perceived weakness in their opponents’ games.

Doubles: Emphasizes more on teamwork and communication, with players needing to coordinate their efforts and strategies closely. Requires targeting specific opponents or exploiting court position to keep the pressure on while ensuring both players cover their respective areas effectively.

5. Equipments

The two main instruments used in badminton are the shuttlecock and the racket. Shuttlecocks are made of two materials: synthetic and feathered. With their great drag, feathered shuttlecocks offer a unique flying experience. Rackets for badminton are lightweight and can be made of aluminium or carbon fiber alloys.

Badminton is known for being a fast-paced game, requiring players to have good fitness, agility and physical fitness. Now that you’re here, if you have this skill, just pick up your racquet and smash the nearest court.

TOP 7 BADMINTON PLAYERS OF ALL TIME

Whether you are a professional or just a fan, the history of badminton is full of incredible players who left an indelible mark on the game. From an incredible display of agility to the way that taking control of play on the court, these top 7 badminton players set standards that inspire awe and excitement. 

1. Lin Dan

  • Lin Dan is considered the greatest badminton player of all time, the only “Super Grand Slam” winner, winning all nine major titles at the age of 28. He won two Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012. He is known for winning five world championships, and an explosive and unpredictable style of play, which earned him the nickname “Super Dan”.

2. Lee Chong Wei

  • Lee Chong Wei is one of the most consistent players in badminton history, holding the World Number One ranking for an impressive total of 349 weeks. Despite winning three Olympic silver medals, he has a wealth of accomplishments, including 46 Super Series titles, that reflect his longevity and expertise in the game.

3. Taufik Hidayat

  • Taufiq Hidayat is known for his incredible talent, he won the Olympic gold medal in 2004, World Championship in 2005, and became the first person to do both. He is known for his exceptional backhand smashes and kept holding in fierce competition with Lin Dan, contributing to memorable matches in badminton history.

4. Gao Ling

  • Gao Ling is recognized as one of the most successful doubles players in badminton history, winning four Olympic medals (two gold, one silver, and one bronze). Her consistency and versatility, alongside five World Championship titles, make her a prominent figure in both women’s doubles and mixed doubles.

5. Rudy Hartono

  • Rudy Hartono is considered a badminton legend, having won the prestigious All England Open title eight times, a record that still stands today. He has significantly impacted the badminton rankings and is known for his powerful net play and charisma on the court.

6. Peter Hoeg Gade

  • Peter Hoeg Gade is one of Europe’s most successful players, holding the World Number One ranking for 64 weeks. Known for his inventive play and trademark shots, he has won five European Championships and remains an influential figure in the sport.

7. Tony Gunawan

  • Tony Gunawan is unique for winning major titles with two different countries: Indonesia and the United States. His Olympic Gold in 2000 and two World Championships demonstrate his remarkable ability as a doubles player, securing his place among badminton’s all-time greats.

Young gun Malvika stuns Olympic medalist Tunjung at China Open

The 23 year old Indian, ranked 43rd in the world, Malvika Bansod pulled off a stunner as she won straight games against Paris Olympic Bronze medalist Gregoria Tunjung.

In a stunning upset at the China Open, Malvika Bansod, a talented young badminton player from India, triumphed over Olympic bronze medalist Gregoria Mariska Tunjung of Indonesia.​

On September 18, 2024, Malvika, defeated the world No. 7 Tunjung in the women’s singles opening round with scores of 26-24, 21-19, in a match that lasted 46 minutes. 

This victory marks the biggest achievement in her career to date, showcasing her resilience as she saved three game points in the first game.

Following her remarkable triumph, Malvika is set to face Scotland’s Kristy Gilmour, a two-time Commonwealth Games medalist, in the next round. 

This match will be another test of her growing skills as she continues to make her mark on the international circuit.

Malvika’s victory comes as she aims to prove herself after previous health challenges and has demonstrated significant improvement since her earlier matches against top players. 

With her determination and recent form, she aspires to achieve even greater success in the sport.

Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro badminton racket

Speed Unleashed: A Review of Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro

Have you come across the Nanoflare 800 pro by Yonex and wonder if it is the right fit for your style of the game? Well here is our detailed product review on the Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro badminton racket which will give you an insight on its key features, performance attributes, gameplay experience, comparison with other rackets and lastly which is the ideal player profile for this specific racket. So stick around and read till the end.

Nanoflare 800 Pro by Yonex is carefully crafted to be an instrument that will improve the performance of players at an advanced level but can also be used by players at an intermediate level of career. It is known and appreciated for its remarkable speed, control, and cutting-edge innovations.

1. KEY COMPONENTS

The Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro is made for professionals who want a blend of power, speed, and control. With its cutting-edge technologies, it improves playability making it preferable for the ones who are looking to play competitive badminton.                  

Name Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro
Weight 84.4g
Balance Point Slightly Head Light
Flexibility Extra Stiff
Stringing Capacity 28 Lbs
Frame Material HM Graphite, M40X, SUPER HMG, Copper
Shaft Material HM Graphite, SUPER HMG, ULTRA PE FIBER
Suitable For Advanced Level
Country of Origin Japan
Type Speed
Frame Shape Isometric

Sonic flare system: The racket has a broader profile which improves stability and minimizes distortion during swing. The enhanced sonic flare system allows quick shuttlecock acceleration and optimizes the repulsion capability of explosive shots. 

Technology: The racket also offers a slender frame that reduces air resistance and enhances agility during gameplay enabling faster swing speeds and forceful shots with less effort. Through the isometric technology, players get an enlarged sweet spot which improves control and accuracy without sacrificing power.

2. PERFORMANCE ATTRIBUTES

Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro is regarded for its remarkable capabilities and with its advanced innovations, it makes it easy to execute precise and forceful shots with greater speed, power, and control. 

Weight (84.4g): The weight lies near the median which means it combines power, speed, control and defense. It’s a good weight balance for players to hit hard without compromising on speed.

Balance point (slightly head light): The head-light balance helps players to stay in control throughout quick rallies. This racket generates a remarkable amount of power all because of its sonic flare system and aero frame. 

Flexibility (Extra stiff): Increases power production during shoots. The extra force these rackets produce is very useful for players who play with a strong and aggressive style, especially during smashes and clears.

Frame material (HM Graphite, M40X, SUPER HMG, Copper): While the new stringing pattern enhances repulsion capabilities, the use of high-modulus graphite materials, such as M40X and SUPER HMG, optimizes shuttlecock acceleration and permits strong smashes and drives.

Frame shape (Isometric): The racket’s isometric head shape provides a large sweet spot by 7%, improving shot accuracy and control. Its aerodynamic frame as it lowers the air resistance and allows faster swing and crazy reflexes during gameplay.

3. GAMEPLAY EXPERIENCE

Playing with the Nanoflare 800 Pro is an incredible experience as it delivers clean, solid shots while providing a solid feel when hit. 

Thanks to the design, intermediate players who value an easily adjustable racquet can still take advantage of its few advantages. Even advanced players can benefit. Maybe not so useful for singles, but for doubles, some users have found the racquet better if it gives more power.

Attack Performance: The overhead shots are noteworthy for their control and precision. Players say that the racket design allows them to move quickly, enabling effective smashes with minimal effort. The racket’s balance contributes to a dynamic swing, enhancing the power and direction of overhead strikes.

Defense Capabilities: When it comes to defense, players have appreciated the comfort in transitioning between shots, particularly during fast exchanges at the net. The racket delivers quick responses, allowing players to react effectively to fast-paced attacks.

Net Area Play: In the net area, the racket is known to give exceptional response. Many have expressed that the racket allows for precise control during drives and finesse shots, which is crucial when playing near the net. The overall balance is praised for facilitating a light punch through the shuttle, creating effective net plays.

Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro Badminton Racket

Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro Badminton Racket

4. COMPARISONS WITH OTHER RACKETS

As a badminton player, we want the best racket that would support our game and style and for me personally, I would love a comparison of top rackets so that I can make a sound choice. 

Hence here we have compared Yonex nanoflare 800 pro with Yonex Arcsaber 7 Pro and Victor auraspeed 90K ll, which give similar performance figures. Nanoflare 800 pro stands out as an all-rounder when compared to rackets of similar designs. Below is the comparison of the rackets with the Nanoflare 800 Pro.

Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro vs. Yonex Arcsaber 7 Pro: A medium flex and even balance are qualities of the Arcsaber 7 Pro, which is intended for control and precision, while the stiff flex and head-light balance of the Nanoflare 800 Pro emphasize speed and agility. 

Around 83 grams (4U) weighs the two rackets; however, the Nanoflare’s sophisticated materials increase power generation, while the Arcsaber’s isometric technology allows for a larger sweet spot.

Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro vs. Victor Auraspeed 90K II: With a stiff flex and a lower weight of 82–87 grams, the Auraspeed 90K II emphasizes speed and agility. Both rackets feature head-light balances, but the Auraspeed 90K II provides swift handling and versatility, while the Nanoflare 800 Pro’s Sonic Flare System and Aero Frame give it a noticeable power edge that makes it perfect for aggressive play styles. 

The power and control of the Nanoflare 800 Pro make it favourable among players who prefer speed and aggressive tactics. The Arcsaber 7 Pro, is known for its comfort and adaptability, mostly preferred by individuals looking for a more user-friendly experience. 

The Auraspeed 90K II is preferred by gamers who want speed and stability for accurate strokes. Players who want to prioritize control should choose Arcsaber 7 pro, whereas the advanced players with aggressive tactics should go for Nanoflare 800 pro and for all the players looking for a combination of speed and stability, Auraspeed 90K ll should be your choice.

5. IDEAL PLAYER PROFILE

In my view and through every information from above I believe the ideal player profile for Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro is an advanced player and sometimes an intermediate player who has a fast swing stroke or has an aggressive playing style. 

If you are a player who has a fast-paced game where agility and control are essential, this racket would be advantageous for you. It can be a go to weapon for those who enjoy aggressive gameplay. 

But if you are a beginner then I would suggest you to go for something that provides a smoother learning curve. Those who want to compete seriously or at high levels may find the Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro to be especially helpful.

Many professional badminton players utilize it since it is known for providing great speed and control, which is in line with the goals of serious players. The Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro Badminton Racket is the weapon of choice for world champions Ratchanok Intanon and Soh Wooi Yik.

6. PURCHASE RECOMMENDATION

If you are an intermediate to advanced player looking for a racket that combines great speed, control, and cutting-edge technology then Yonex Nanoflare 800 pro can be your ideal choice. The 15,000 rupees price tag might seem high, but the performance that it offers makes it worthwhile. The Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro is constructed to enhance your performance while aligning closely with the dynamics of modern badminton play.

The overall rating for the Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro is approximately 8.5 out of 10.​ This score reflects high praise from various reviews regarding its technology, playing experience, and suitability for aggressive players.

So, what are you waiting for? Buy the Yonex Nanoflare 800 Pro badminton racket now.

Parabadminton player awaiting for his dues by PCI since June 2022

It was during the 2022 Para badminton International when the athlete, Sanjeev kumar along with his four teammates had to pay the organizers to access their accommodation and the venue.

Indian officials who were responsible for the team started playing a blame game. In June 2023 before the next edition, an email was sent from Joran Bridal, the Executive Director of Badminton Canada regarding the pending invoice of $2,480.

In the mail it clearly stated that only after the payment is done will the player be let into their accommodation and competition venue.

This led to an international embarrassment as the players were asked to vacate their hotel because the balance invoice was unpaid. 

“We were told to pay for accommodation and entry fees ourselves. We had no choice but to pay out of our own pockets. Since we paid all the dues, we had to borrow money for meals” Sanjeev Kumar stated.

A receipt issued by badminton Canada confirms that Sanjeev Kumar paid $710 (around 59,500) to cover the fees and accommodation. Para badminton official under the BAI said the amount was paid to PCI to cover expenses including entry fees.

The blame game just keeps going on whereas player, Sanjeev Kumar who has sent numerous reminders for refund still awaits a positive response from Para badminton chairman (Prabhakar rao)

Top 11 badminton courts in Mumbai

Top 11 badminton courts in Mumbai

Mumbai, the bustling metropolis, is not just known for its vibrant culture and dynamic lifestyle but also for its diverse sporting scene. The city, famous for its cricketing brilliance, is also witnessing an upward trend in terms of badminton.

Among the various sports that captivate Mumbaikars, badminton stands out as a popular choice for both casual players and serious enthusiasts. With its fast-paced action and minimal equipment requirements, badminton is accessible to everyone, and finding the perfect court to play can make all the difference.

If you’re looking for top-notch badminton courts in Mumbai, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up the top 11 badminton courts that offer excellent facilities, professional coaching, and a great environment to improve your game. 

Top 11 badminton courts in Mumbai you should try out

The Sports Foundry @ Bhandup

The Sports Foundry is a unique multi-sports facility in Bhandup, featuring five top-quality wooden badminton courts for enthusiasts to enjoy thrilling matches. The facility has a washroom, flood lights, parking and clean drinking water.

Additionally, they boast two 6-a-side football/ box cricket turf and one cricket net facility which can be converted to a box cricket turf. Their facility is designed to cater to the diverse interests of sports enthusiasts, offering a welcoming environment for players of all levels.

Charges: ₹200 for 30 minutes

 

Universal High School @ Chembur

The Universal High School is a premium facility in Chembur that has 2 synthetic Badminton Courts, 2 5-a 5-a-side Box Cricket/ Football Turfs and a Cricket net for a wholesome experience.

The facility offers membership plans for badminton lovers starting from ₹ 2099 for 7 days. Additionally, the facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights and a seating area.

Charges: ₹600 for 60 minutes

 

MRBA 1 @ Kandivali (W)

Located in Thakur International School, Kandivali West, the MRBA 1 facility has a single wooden badminton court 

The facility offers membership plans for badminton lovers starting from ₹ 2099 for 7 days. Additionally, the facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights, a washroom and an expert coach.

Charges: ₹650 for 60 minutes

 

MRBA 2 @ Kandivali (W)

MRBA 2, another facility by the brand has a single wooden badminton court at Thakur International School that features high-quality flooring, clear white lines, and professional-grade nets, providing an excellent environment for training and playing badminton.

The facility offers membership plans for badminton lovers starting from ₹ 2099 for 7 days. Additionally, the facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights, a washroom and an expert coach.

Charges: ₹600 for 60 minutes

 

Mandar Ranade Badminton Academy @ Kandivali (E)

This is a one-of-a-kind facility that offers 6 wooden court badminton facilities located in Thakur Public School, Kandivali. 

The facility offers membership plans for badminton lovers starting from ₹ 2099 for 7 days. Additionally, the facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights, a washroom and an expert coach.

Charges: ₹500 for 60 minutes

 

Shuttle Whizz Badminton Academy @ Bandra (W)

The Shuttle Whizz Badminton Academy located in Bandra (W) boasts a state-of-the-art wooden badminton court facility.

The facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights and a warm-up area.

Charges: ₹350 for 30 minutes

 

Hurdles Badminton Academy @ Ghatkopar

The Hurdles Badminton Academy located in Ghatkopar offers a smooth badminton experience with a single court facility with an artificial turf surface.

The facility provides an artificial turf, flood lights and a warm-up area. Additionally, they offer badminton coaching (2 sessions/week). The sessions cost ₹3000 for 30 days.

Charges: ₹500 for 60 minutes

 

Global Badminton Academy @ Virar (W)

The Global Badminton Academy in Virar West has three top-quality wooden badminton courts. The facility offers a fantastic shuttling experience for all the badminton enthusiasts out there! 

The facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights, a warm-up area and an expert coach.

Charges: ₹500 for 60 minutes

 

Shuttle Passion Badminton Academy @ Borivali (W)

Located in the heart of Borivali, this facility boasts six high-quality wooden badminton courts, providing a perfect surface for players to showcase their skills. 

The facility offers drinking water, parking, flood lights, a seating area, a washroom, a sports shop and an expert coach available.

Charges: ₹600 for 60 minutes

 

Monte South Badminton Court @ Byculla 

The Monte South Badminton Court located in Byculla is one of the best badminton facilities in the city. The facility has two synthetic badminton courts wherein you can easily conduct a game of badminton.

Additionally, the court offers a washroom and parking space for the visitors.

Charges: ₹1500 for 60 minutes

 

Padukone Shuttlers Academy @ Sion

The Padukone Shuttlers Academy, located in Sion, offers two wooden badminton courts. Looking to improve your game or conduct a badminton tournament? Then the Padukone Shuttlers Academy is the best fit for you. The facility takes only bulk/corporate bookings. So, interested ones, please click here.

Indian Husband-Wife duo advance in the Hong Kong Open Super 500

​In a thrilling start to the Hong Kong Open Super 500, the Indian badminton mixed doubles duo of B Sumeeth Reddy and N Sikki Reddy showcased their prowess by advancing to the second round.​ Their victory marks a bright spot amidst a challenging day for other Indian shuttlers, particularly Priyanshu Rajawat and Kiran George, who faced early exits from the tournament. Fans are keenly anticipating the next matches as the Reddy duo aims for further success in this prestigious event.

B Sumeeth Reddy and N Sikki Reddy made a significant impact in the opening round of the Hong Kong Open, advancing to the second round with an impressive victory over fellow Indian players Tarun Kona and Sri Krishna Priya Kudaravalli. They secured the match with a straight-game win, finishing with scores of 21-9, 21-10 within a mere 22 minutes. This victory not only highlights their skill but also their synergy as a husband-wife pair competing on this international stage.

The match was characterized by their dominant performance, where they effectively controlled the pace and flow. The Reddy duo’s tactical approach and quick decision-making led to a comfortable win against their compatriots. It was a delightful display of talent that set a positive tone for their campaign in the tournament.

Looking forward, Sumeeth and Sikki will face the eighth-seeded pair of Masgoh Soon Huat and Lai Shevon Jemie in the next round. This upcoming match is sure to test their mettle as they aim to progress deeper into the tournament, fueled by the momentum from their recent success. Fans are excited to see if they can continue their winning streak against tougher competition.

Sadly, it wasn’t such a fortunate day for other Indian shuttlers. Priyanshu Rajawat and Kiran George both experienced first-round exits, with Rajawat falling to Japan’s Takuma Obayashi in a tightly contested match that ended 9-21, 21-16, 9-21. Meanwhile, Kiran met a similar fate against Su Li Yang of Chinese Taipei, concluding his match with scores of 16-21, 16-21. Their early departures serve as a reminder of the fierce competition present in the tournament.

The Hong Kong Open continues to be a platform where athletes demonstrate their talent and resilience. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Sumeeth and Sikki Reddy, hoping for further triumphs that will elevate their standing and inspire future generations of badminton players in India.

Indian Para Shuttler Nitesh Kumar Secures Maiden Paralympic Medal

Nitesh Kumar Slams BAI, Calls for Shift of Para Badminton to PCI

In a powerful social media statement that has resonated deeply within the sports community, Nitesh Kumar, India’s gold medalist from the 2024 Paris Paralympics, has publicly criticized the Badminton Association of India (BAI). The 29-year-old para-badminton star, who made headlines for his remarkable achievement in the Men’s Singles SL3 category, expressed his dissatisfaction with BAI’s engagement in para-badminton responsibilities and has urged that the sport be transferred to the Paralympics Committee of India (PCI).

Nitesh’s frustration is rooted in the perceived lack of support and responsiveness from BAI regarding the needs and interests of para-badminton athletes. In his candid remarks on social media, he highlighted that despite the association’s rare moments of appreciation, the athletes feel largely ignored. “We are highly dissatisfied with the response and the interest from BAI,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a more dedicated focus on para-badminton that PCI could potentially provide.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Nitesh’s social media post tagged prominent figures, including the Sports Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya, and Arunachal Pradesh MP, Kiren Rijiju. By reaching out to these authorities, Nitesh hopes to amplify the voices of fellow para-athletes who share similar sentiments. His plea is clear: the governance of para-badminton needs to be handled by those who are attuned to the unique challenges faced by these athletes.

Nitesh Kumar’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational. Having won India’s second gold medal at the Paris Paralympics without losing a single match, his dedication and skill showcase the heights that can be achieved even against substantial odds. The final match saw him triumph over Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell with scores of 21-14, 18-21, and 23-21. His resilience in the face of a life-altering accident in 2009, which resulted in permanent leg damage, further underscores his remarkable spirit and passion for the sport.

As calls for a transfer of governance continue to echo through the sporting world, it remains to be seen how BAI will respond to the growing discontent among para-badminton athletes. Nitesh Kumar’s bold stand not only highlights the urgent need for change but also sets a precedent for other athletes to speak up regarding their concerns. As his journey unfolds, supporters hope that his voice leads to meaningful change for para-badminton in India, ensuring that the sport receives the attention and support it truly deserves.

Saina Nehwal Defends Olympic Medal Comments Amid Criticism

“Pehle Olympics ke liye qualify toh karke dikhao!” says Saina Nehwal

In a passionate and fierce response to her critics, Indian badminton star Saina Nehwal has taken to social media to defend her hard-earned Olympic bronze medal from the London 2012 Games. Recently, comments circulated online questioning the credibility of her achievement, suggesting that her medal was a “gift” rather than the result of her skill and perseverance. Saina’s reply not only tackled the criticism head-on but also inspired conversations about the dedication and sacrifices athletes make to reach the pinnacle of their sport.

​Saina’s retort was both direct and poignant.​ “Olympic level ke layak toh bano aap. Pehle Olympics ke liye qualify toh karke dikhao,” she proclaimed, challenging her detractors to first qualify for the Olympics themselves before questioning her success. Her words resonate not just as a defense of her accomplishments but also as an invitation to understand the journey that elite athletes undertake. This statement encapsulates the frustration felt by many athletes who endure years of rigorous training, sacrifices, and fierce competition to represent their country on the world stage.

In the backdrop of the recently concluded Paris Olympics, Saina’s comments reflect the ongoing discourse about accountability and respect within sports. She emphasized that the process of qualifying for the Olympics is no small feat, requiring immense dedication, resilience, and sometimes overcoming significant obstacles.

As the first Indian shuttler to win an Olympic medal, Saina Nehwal’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational. Her bronze at the 2012 London Games marked a historic moment for Indian badminton, elevating the sport’s profile in the country and paving the way for future generations of players. Saina’s impact is not just in her victories but also in the barriers she broke, showcasing that athletes from India can shine on the global stage.

Her husband and fellow badminton player, Parupalli Kashyap, supported her stance, revealing that Saina’s remarks during the recent Olympics triggered these unwarranted critiques. He echoed her frustration, reinforcing the idea that achievements should be recognized rather than undermined.

As Saina Nehwal continues her journey in badminton, her response to the criticism she faced unveils a crucial chapter in her story. It highlights not just her individual resolve but also a collective call for respect for all athletes who aspire to compete at the highest levels.

Nitesh Kumar Wins Gold in Para Badminton at Paris Paralympics

India Shines Bright in Paralympic Badminton

The buzz around the Paris 2024 Paralympics has reached new heights, and as ardent supporters, we couldn’t be more thrilled to witness the Indian para-badminton players put on a show that truly embodies the spirit of our nation! The atmosphere at La Chapelle Arena was electric, filled with cheers and excitement as these incredible athletes demonstrated their unparalleled talent and unwavering determination. Every match was a reminder of resilience and hard work, creating unforgettable moments that will stay in our hearts for years to come.

A Golden Moment for Nitesh Kumar

One moment that stands out was when Nitesh Kumar captured the spotlight in the men’s singles SL3 event. I held my breath as he went head-to-head with Daniel Bethell, the silver medalist from Tokyo 2020. The nail-biting battle unfolded over three sets, and I can still feel the tension in the air as Nitesh clinched the gold with a score of 21-14, 18-21, 23-21. Watching him transform his dedication and hard work into this incredible victory was nothing short of inspiring, and when he raised that gold medal high, it was a moment of pure joy that brought the crowd roaring to its feet.

Silver Linings for Suhas Yathiraj and Thulasimathi Murugesan

Not too far behind, Suhas Yathiraj and Thulasimathi Murugesan etched their names into the spotlight by securing silver medals in their respective events. It was a joy to see their hard work come to fruition as they showcased both resilience and strategy throughout the competition. They fought valiantly, maintaining composure even in the most intense moments, and their fierce spirit reminded all of us what true dedication looks like.

Impressive Bronze Finish for Nithya Sre Sivan and Manisha Ramadass

And let’s not overlook the remarkable achievements of Nithya Sre Sivan and Manisha Ramadass, who proudly brought home bronze medals in their category. Their success represents so much more than just personal victories; they are shining examples of hope for aspiring athletes everywhere. Witnessing their journey has left me in awe, as they embody the essence of determination we all strive for.

As these extraordinary athletes continue to shine on the global stage, their accomplishments resonate far beyond the medals they earn. Each of them embodies resilience, determination, and a spirit that refuses to give up, inspiring countless individuals across the country. ​The success of the Indian contingent in badminton is a powerful reminder of the tenacity of those who dare to chase their dreams, and I couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.​

In celebrating their victories, let us also reflect on the lessons of hope and perseverance they bring. Here’s to the remarkable athletes of India, whose journeys uplift us all and remind us that anything is possible with hard work and heart!

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