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Basic Rules For Playing Badminton
Basic Rules for Playing Badminton
Like any sport, badminton has a set of rules that players must follow. While the game itself is not difficult to play, understanding the rules will allow for better matches. This is especially true if you plan to play in competition. Even if you only ever plan to play badminton leisurely, having an understanding of the rules will allow for streamlined playing. Badminton is similar to tennis in that teams can play singularly or in doubles.
1. Court and Equipment
- A standard badminton court is 13.4 meters (44 feet) long and 6.1 meters (20 feet) wide for doubles, and 5.18 meters (17 feet) wide for singles
- The net is placed at a height of 1.55 meters (5 feet 1 inch) at the edges and 1.524 meters (5 feet) in the center.
- Players use a shuttlecock and a racket to play the game.
2. Scoring System
- A match consists of the best of three games, with each game played to 21 points.
- A point is scored on every rally, regardless of which side is serving (rally scoring system).
- If the score reaches 20-20, a player must lead by 2 points to win. If the score reaches 29-29, the player who scores the 30th point wins the game.
- The server must serve diagonally across the net into the opponent's service court
- The shuttle must be struck below the waist and with the racket head pointing downward
- In singles, the server stands on the right service court if their score is even and on the left if their score is odd
- In doubles, the server alternates service courts after winning a rally
4. Faults and Let Calls
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A fault occurs if the shuttlecock:
- Lands outside the boundaries of the court.
- Fails to pass over the net.
- Touches the ceiling or walls.
- Is hit twice by the same player.
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A let is called if:
- The shuttlecock gets caught in the net after a serve.
- There is outside interference.
5. Player Conduct and Fair Play
- Players must not distract or obstruct their opponents.
- The game must be played in a sportsmanlike manner, adhering to fair play principles.
- Coaching is only allowed during designated intervals.
By following these rules, players can enjoy a fair and competitive game of badminton.