badminton racket player hit feather shuttlecock

Top 7 Feather Badminton Shuttlecocks (Best of 2022)

Badminton is a game of strategy, skills, and stamina. A badminton player needs to have a combination of all the required aspects to become a master of the game. A player must have all his essentials in place to win a game of badminton. Usually, most of the players focus on just buying the best badminton racket. But alongside a good racket, one should also make sure to buy the best badminton feather shuttlecock. A good quality shuttlecock will help you get an accurate flight trajectory and pinpoint shot placements. 

Now there will be many questions in your mind, like Which is the No.1 shuttlecock? or Which is the best badminton feather shuttlecock? It might become a bit of a hassle to buy the perfect shuttlecock as there are too many options in the market. Relax; we have got you covered. 

In this article, we will help you understand the following points: 

1) Which is the best badminton feather shuttlecock

2) Which is the No.1 shuttlecock? 

3) Which is the best brand in shuttlecock? 

Which is the best badminton feather shuttlecock? 

Gone are the days when people used to select a badminton feather shuttlecock by its price range. The cost shouldn’t be the most crucial factor when buying a feather shuttlecock. A customer can conveniently purchase any product at a much-discounted rate on any online shopping website. In this article, we will also mention what shuttlecocks professionals use. Let’s get it started. 

Which is the No.1 shuttlecock? 

1. FZ Forza VIP Premium Badminton Feather Shuttlecock

 

FZ Forza VIP Premium Badminton Feather Shuttlecock

FZ FORZA VIP premium badminton feather shuttlecock is the top shuttle of FZ FORZA. A first-class tournament shuttle approved by BWF and used by several national federations around Europe. Perfect flight and good durability make this shuttle the best choice for the game.

The shuttle offers 77 Speed and comes with 12 shuttles in one tube.

Which is the No.1 shuttlecock?: Can also try Babolat 4 (Speed 76) Badminton Feather Shuttlecock 

2. Yonex Aerosensa 50 Feather Shuttlecocks

Yonex Aerosensa 50 Feather Shuttlecocks

 

It is a known fact that most American badminton clubs opt for Yonex AS 50 feather shuttlecocks while needing a feather shuttlecock with 100% solid cork. Yonex has been producing top-quality feather birdies for decades now. Yonex Aerosensa 50 Feather Shuttlecocks come in three-speed options and can easily sustain hammering from the best badminton rackets in the world. If you are an elite-level badminton player with accuracy, you should surely choose Yonex Aerosensa 50. With Yonex AS 50, you can be confident about reconcilable performances and precise shot placements. 

Which is the No. 1 shuttlecock?: Can also try Adidas FS09 Hybrid Feather Badminton Shuttlecock

3. Victor Master Ace Badminton Feather Shuttlecock (BWF Approved)

Victor Master Ace Badminton Feather Shuttlecock

 

The Victor Master Ace Badminton Feather Shuttlecock is designed for durability, consistency, and speed. This shuttlecock is Victor’s top-of-the-range shuttle and official tournament shuttle of the VICTOR Korean Open – Badminton Super Series. Every single feather of the Victor Master Ace badminton feather shuttlecock is chosen very carefully. Victor precisely selects every single feather from its shape, angle, curve, size, humidity, and completeness to ensure flight, stability, speed, and quality.

Which is the No.1 shuttlecock?: Can also try RSL Tourney No. 4 Badminton Feather Shuttlecock 

4. Yonex Aeroclear 30 Feather Shuttlecocks 

Yonex Aeroclear 30 Feather Shuttlecocks 

Is your search going for a budget-fitting shuttlecock? Look for further as Yonex Aeroclear 30 is your answer, as they come with goose feathers as well. Aeroclear 30 shuttlecocks will give you a similar experience to Aerosena 30. The ACL 30 shuttlecocks consist of many layers of cork which makes it affordable as the case is not the same as AS30 because it has 100% cork wood. But the quality and durability are affected here. It can give you satisfaction with decent consistency and good durability, along with a nice flight. 

5. Li Ning SG Gold (Speed 76) Badminton Feather Shuttlecock

 

Li Ning SG Gold (Speed 76) Badminton Feather Shuttlecock

Li Ning SG Gold Speed 76 Feather Shuttlecock belongs to the premium quality shuttles range from Li Ning. It is made of a natural cork base and duck feather skirt. It offers moderate speed. It is available in a pack of 12.

Which is the No 1 shuttlecock?: Can also try RSL Tourney No 1 Supreme Badminton 

6. Yonex Aerosensa 30 AS30 Feather Shuttlecocks 

Yonex Aerosensa 30 AS30 Feather Shuttlecocks 

Elevate your game to unstoppable levels with the Yonex Aerosensa 30 AS30 shuttlecock.  The high-quality Yonex Aerosensa 30 AS30 is designed to perform at extremely high levels, producing a stable trajectory, short recovery time, and solid feel upon impact. The base is made of 100% solid cork, and the cone is made with high-quality goose feathers. The Yonex Aerosensa 30 AS30 shuttlecock gives a solid performance in a hard-hitting practice session or a fast-paced match.

Which is the best brand in shuttlecock? 

Being one of the most popular badminton brands in the world, it goes without saying that you should consider getting yourself a shuttlecock from Yonex. These guys employ the latest technology to design top-notch shuttlecocks that perform impeccably in matches. Their shuttles are used the world over and in many professional matches as well.

More options: 

RSL: This company is dedicated to the art of producing shuttlecocks, and they offer top-quality feather and synthetic shuttlecocks. Of course, you can buy goose or duck feather shuttles. They’ve got a range of products for players at varying skill levels. 

Babolat: Looking for a shuttlecock approved for competitions? Or a shuttlecock perfectly suited to training? A balance between flight quality and life span for maximum pleasure, the Babolat badminton shuttlecocks cover all your needs.

Li-Ning: Li-Ning Studio is the e-commerce wing of Li-Ning, the Chinese leader in sports apparel and footwear. The company manufactures premium badminton goods and provides high-quality gear and equipment.

Choosing the perfect badminton shuttlecock is extremely important. Here’s hoping this buying guide on badminton shuttlecocks will help you select the ideal shuttlecock.

The basic fouls and faults in badminton every player must know

In sports, a foul is an unfair or illegal act by a player that violates the game’s rules. Focus can be intentional or accidental, often resulting in a penalty.  

Like any other sport, badminton has different types of fouls where a player can mess up. “Committing these errors can lead to the loss of point or service, also known as a fault in the game of badminton”. 

The types of fouls we will discuss can be grouped into five main categories: contact, double hit, service, service received, and over-the-net foul. Let us see and understand each foul in detail, how they happen and why are they considered faults. 

The primary goal or objective of the player is to prevent himself/herself from losing their service turn or points due to these fouls and faults. 

Understanding the basic faults and fouls in badminton

Contact Fouls

Contact foul usually happens when the shuttlecock comes in contact with an object or a player other than your racket. A shuttlecock should touch only your racket while playing the game. 

Shuttlecock should not even touch your shoes, shin, t-shirt and any other part of your body or clothing, failing to do so may lead to a foul giving an extra advantage to your opponents. By staying flexible and light on your feet while playing you can avoid such types of fouls. That is why warming and stretching are so important in badminton, being able to react quickly and move in an instant can prevent contact fouls. 

Service Faults or Rules in badminton service

  • A service fault can be seen when a service is not executed below the waist or in upward motion. 
  • While serving the player’s feet must be on the floor and inside the court’s boundary line. 
  • A service fault is counted when you are positioned on the left side of the court during the match and you do not serve the shuttle to the right side. 
  • A player should swing at the shuttlecock once when serving and keep the feet firmly on the ground as you swing. Double swings or dragging the feet can also result in service fouls. 
  • While serving a player should not waste time as it can cause further delay in the game. 

Double Hit Fouls 

When a player hits the shuttlecock twice in a row it is known as a double hit foul. Once you hit it once that is all you are allowed. Double hits are considered illegal and you can give a point to your opponent. If you and your teammate come in contact with the shuttle simultaneously, it is a double-hit foul. You can’t hit the shuttlecock more than once when it is on your side of the net. 

Over the Net Fouls 

A net foul is committed when a player fails to clear the net during the match or if the shuttlecock passes under or through the net. To avoid these types of fouls, it is crucial to use a racket with a head and grip suitable for your playing style. 

Another way to commit a net foul is by hitting the shuttlecock before it passes over the net. Players should wait until the shuttlecock has crossed onto the other side of the court before hitting it. 

Service Receiving Faults 

Service-receiving fouls are similar to service fouls, service-receiving fouls occur when the shuttle is served to you. 

To avoid committing any foul during an opponent’s serve, you must remain still. Any movement, no matter how slight, can result in the foul being called against you. This includes shifting your feet or making any gestures. 

To avoid a foul you should also avoid any form of distraction, such as trash-talking or making gestures, as this can also be considered as foul. The best approach is to remain stationary and quiet allowing the opponent to complete the serve.

Important badminton terminologies every badminton enthusiast should know

Terminology Description
Drive Shot A fast, low shot that travels flat over the net, making it challenging for the opponent to return.
Clear Shot A long shot aimed from the back of your court to the back of your opponent’s court is used defensively or offensively.
Drop Shot A shot played from the back of your court to the front of your opponent’s court intended to disrupt their rhythm.
Net Shot A short shot played from the front of your court to the front of your opponent’s court, close to the net.
Smash Shot A powerful, decisive shot aimed at ending the rally.
Lift Shot A defensive shot that is high and long, played from the front of your court to the back of your opponent’s court.
Net Kill Shot An aggressive short smash was played at the frontcourt, designed to conclude the rally.
Flick Serve A deceptive serve that begins long instead of short, catching the opponent by surprise.
Footwork The movement and steps taken to navigate the court swiftly and effectively.
Rally A single play in badminton that encompasses everything from the serve to the point’s conclusion (when the shuttle hits the net or ground).

Top must-have Badminton gear and equipment every player must own

Badminton is a popular sport played by millions of people around the world. From children to adults, everyone loves playing badminton. Badminton requires skill, technique, and agility, and it also helps to stay fit and healthy. For playing any sport, you need the appropriate gear and equipment, just like that to play badminton you will have to get the right equipment. In this article, we will be discussing the gear and equipment that are required while playing badminton. 

Top must-have Badminton gear and equipment every player must own

Badminton Racket

Badminton rackets are made up of different materials, and the weight of the racket depends on which material is used. It is one of the most important pieces of equipment in the game of badminton as it is used to hit the shuttlecock. Badminton rackets are made up of aluminium, steel, graphite, and carbon fibre.

There are different types of rackets available in the market depending on your preferences and which type suits your gameplay. Making an online purchase of badminton sports gear is not an ideal option. Instead of purchasing online one should visit the store and check the quality and comfort of the racket physically. 

Badminton Shuttlecock 

There are two types of shuttlecock in badminton equipment, one is synthetic and the other one is made up of feathers. Feather shuttlecock is made from goose or duck feathers, while synthetic shuttlecocks are made from plastic and nylon. Plastic shuttlecocks are more durable and long-lasting than traditional feather shuttlecocks.

Youngsters and learners should use the plastic shuttle as the feather ones are expensive as well and they get tattered if not hit properly or if the wrong technique is used. As plastic shuttles are heavy they travel short distances but are ideal for building strength. The shuttlecock made with feathers has a cork base with 16 feathers attached to it, as they are lightweight they travel long distances and are mostly used by amateurs and professional players. 

Badminton Shoes 

Badminton shoes are one of the most essential elements in badminton gear and badminton equipment. Badminton shoes are lightweight and have a soft cushioning to absorb the impact while jumping and landing, they also have a strong grip which provides support while they move around the court.

Normal sports shoes should be avoided while playing badminton as it doesn’t have proper grip. 

Badminton Outfit or Attire 

Badminton players are advised to wear comfortable and lightweight clothing that allows for easy movement around the court. It is recommended to wear breathable materials such as cotton and polymer to prevent overheating. In competitive matches, players should use wearable gear like handgrips, wristbands and ankle guards. Men wear shorts and a T-shirt or a polo, and women wear skirts and jumpsuits. A player should select the appropriate badminton gear and badminton equipment rather than looking for aesthetics. 

Beautiful badminton player in a stance with her male partner ready to receive the shuttlecock on the field

Badminton Apparel and Accessories

Choosing the appropriate apparel and accessories is essential not only in badminton but also in any sport. Some essential accessories which are included in badminton gear and badminton equipment are as follows: 

Grip: The grip is an essential element and it is recommended to carry extra grips. Towel grip can be used by the players as it provides better absorbency and gives a non-slip sweat-free grip while playing. 

Grip powder: Grip powders are usually used to avoid sweating on your hands as sweat may lose your grip on the racket and make it difficult to play. 

Wrist/headbands: The wristbands or headbands are one of the most important accessories to carry to the court as they quickly wipe your sweat without any hassle. 

God’s Advice

God's Advice

Top Badminton Trick Shots of all time

Top Badminton Trick Shots of all time

Badminton, known for its lightning-fast pace and precision, is often viewed as a game of finesse and technical skill. But when the top players in the world take to the court, it becomes something more—an arena of creativity and daring. Beyond power smashes and flawless drops, these elite athletes pull off trick shots that leave fans in awe and their opponents scrambling.

In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most mind-blowing trick shots performed by badminton’s best. These moments are not only displays of incredible talent but also of mental agility and the ability to stay calm under immense pressure. Let’s take a look at some of the standout trick shots from badminton players who have redefined the boundaries of what’s possible on the court.

Top badminton trick shots of all time

Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo – Behind the Back, Blind Shot

Known for his lightning reflexes and unpredictable play, Indonesia’s Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo delivered one of the most daring shots in recent memory: a behind-the-back, blind shot. Sukamuljo, with his back to the net and little room to manoeuvre, instinctively flicked his racket behind him to return the shuttle. The crowd erupted in disbelief as he executed the shot without even seeing where the shuttle would land. This type of improvisation is what makes Sukamuljo one of the most thrilling players to watch.

Lee Zii Jia – Between the Legs

Malaysia’s rising star, Lee Zii Jia, is known for his aggressive style of play. He showed off his flair for the spectacular with a between-the-legs shot. With the shuttle rapidly dropping towards him, Zii Jia nonchalantly switched his racket under his legs to return the shot with ease. What makes this shot so impressive isn’t just the technical execution, but the confidence to pull it off in a high-stakes match. It’s this mix of composure and flair that has made Zii Jia a fan favorite.

Lee Yang – Net Deception

Taiwanese player Lee Yang is renowned for his net play, and his deceptive shot is a testament to his finesse. Facing a net shot, Yang feigned a soft return, only to flick the shuttle in an unexpected direction at the very last moment. The opponent, anticipating an easy play, was left flat-footed. Net deception shots are a hallmark of experienced doubles players, and Yang executed this one to perfection, underlining his status as a master of quick thinking.

Hao Dong ZHOU – Behind the Back

Hao Dong Zhou delivered his own version of the behind-the-back shot, a bold move that instantly sent a ripple of excitement through the arena. While the behind-the-back shot is incredibly difficult due to the lack of vision and control, Zhou made it look effortless. His reaction speed and ability to read the game allowed him to make a successful return from an awkward position, illustrating his athleticism and court awareness.

Viktor Axelsen – Between the Legs

World champion Viktor Axelsen has built a reputation for his powerful smashes and tactical genius, but even he isn’t above some trickery. Axelsen faced a low shuttle near his feet. Instead of opting for a regular forehand or backhand, he smoothly executed a between-the-legs shot, surprising his opponent. While Axelsen is typically known for his straightforward approach, this shot showed his versatility and willingness to innovate when the situation called for it.

Viktor Axelsen – Turnaround Shot

Just when you think you’ve seen it all from Axelsen, he pulled off yet another audacious trick shot. Caught in a moment where his back was almost completely turned to the net, Axelsen managed to rotate his body and swing his racket to return a high, difficult shot. The precision required to pull off such a shot is immense, and Axelsen’s ability to stay composed in that moment is what sets him apart from other players.

Aaron Chia – Behind the Back

Malaysia’s Aaron Chia joins the list with his behind-the-back shot. His quick reflexes were on full display as he, without hesitation, swung his racket behind him to return a shot that seemed impossible to reach. Chia’s ability to react instinctively in tight situations is what makes him a formidable force on the court.

Lakshya Sen – Between the Legs

India’s Lakshya Sen demonstrated his dexterity with a slick between-the-legs return. In a moment where most players would struggle to make any sort of meaningful return, Sen kept his composure and improvised beautifully. This kind of creativity is what’s driving Sen’s rise in the world rankings, and it’s easy to see why he’s considered one of the sport’s brightest young talents.

Felix Burestedt – Between the Legs

Sweden’s Felix Burestedt joined the trick shot brigade with a between-the-legs shot of his own. Facing a difficult return, Burestedt opted for a daring yet controlled maneuver, swinging his racket between his legs to send the shuttle back over the net. His calmness in executing such a tricky shot is a hallmark of a player who thrives under pressure.

Yugo Kobayashi – Between the Legs

Finally, Japanese doubles player Yugo Kobayashi closed out this list with yet another brilliant between-the-legs return. As one of the top doubles players in the world, Kobayashi’s quick reactions and instincts were evident in this moment. His ability to improvise during a rapid-fire rally and still maintain control speaks to the extraordinary skill level required to perform at the highest level of badminton.

Short on time? Then watch this amazing video showing the best badminton trick shots and get enthralled. Also, do let us know which is your favourite among them.

badminton serve

How to serve right in Badminton: Everything you should know

In badminton, the service rules and regulations play a crucial role, not just as a way to start the rally but as a key strategic element that can influence the outcome of the match. A well-placed serve can create pressure and set up the rally in your favour. To ensure fair play and consistency, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) has established clear service rules that all players must adhere to. This guide will break down these regulations, including recent updates, and offer tips to help you refine your service technique and improve your overall badminton game.

Tips to master the serve in Badminton

Both feet must remain in contact with the floor when hitting the shuttle

In badminton, both the server and receiver must ensure that part of both feet remains in contact with the ground until the shuttle is struck. During the serve, you are not allowed to lift or move either foot off the floor before hitting the shuttle, though minor adjustments like pivoting in place are permitted. Similarly, the receiver must keep their feet grounded until the serve is completed, preventing early movement or anticipation. This rule promotes stability and balance while ensuring fair play, as neither player can gain an unfair advantage by moving prematurely.

Your feet must not make contact with any of the court lines

When serving or receiving in badminton, it’s important to ensure that your feet are not touching any of the court lines. You are allowed to position yourself anywhere within your designated half of the court, including the tramlines (side alleys used in doubles), as long as you remain inside the boundaries and do not make contact with any lines. Standing on or outside the lines while serving in badminton or receiving will result in a fault. These service rules in badminton ensures that players maintain proper positioning and adhere to the court’s boundaries during crucial moments of play.

badminton serve

badminton serve

You must hit the cork, not the feathers

According to the Badminton World Federation (BWF), the shuttle’s base, known as the cork, must be struck during the first service. This rule in badminton was introduced to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage by hitting the feathers before the cork, which would create excessive spin and unpredictable flight patterns, making it difficult for the opponent to return the shuttle. Striking the feathers first also likely contributed to quicker wear and tear of the shuttles, reducing their durability. This adjustment ensures fair play and maintains consistency in the shuttle’s flight, preserving both the integrity of the game and the lifespan of the shuttle.

The entire shuttle must be hit below 1.15 meters

The BWF Laws of Badminton state that, “the whole of the shuttle shall be below 1.15 meters from the surface of the court at the instant of being hit by the server’s racket” (BWF Laws of Badminton 9.1.6). The rules and regulations was introduced in March 2018, this rule in badminton aims to improve the enforcement of service laws at BWF tournaments. 

A service judge measures the height using a specific plastic device that aligns with two black lines. The Yonex All England tournament was the first World Tour event to apply this new regulation, which is now standard in all international tournaments. 

However, the new rule in badminton has not yet been implemented in club or domestic tournaments, where the previous rule remains in effect. Under the old regulation, the shuttle must be below the server’s waist when struck, with the waist defined as an imaginary line around the body at the lowest point of the server’s bottom rib. 

Additionally, the server’s racket must be angled downward at the moment of contact with the shuttle. It is still uncertain when or how the BWF will apply the new service rule in clubs and domestic tournaments worldwide, particularly since the measuring device will be required, along with an official to operate it.

The serve must be executed with a smooth, forward motion

Once you initiate your backswing, the serve must be performed as a single, uninterrupted motion. This means that there should be no pauses or breaks at any stage of the serving action. For instance, an illegal serve occurs if the player halts at the backswing before proceeding to hit the shuttle. 

Similarly, if a player alternates between moving forward and backward multiple times prior to making contact with the shuttle, it also constitutes a fault. The intent of this rule in badminton is to ensure a fluid and continuous serving motion, which helps maintain the pace of the game and prevents players from gaining an unfair advantage by manipulating the timing of their serve. 

Adhering to these rules and regulations for badminton is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the serve and ensuring fair competition.

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.
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