Badminton, a fast-paced and highly competitive racket sport, has been captivating players and spectators worldwide for centuries. From casual backyard matches to professional tournaments, understanding the scoring system and rules is crucial to fully appreciate the game’s intensity and excitement. In this blog, we will delve into the intricacies of badminton scoring and rules, shedding light on the key aspects that every enthusiast should know.
Badminton Scoring System
Badminton follows a unique scoring system, which can be a bit perplexing for newcomers. The game is typically played in two formats: singles and doubles. Let’s break down the scoring system for both formats:
a. Singles:
A standard game is played to 21 points. Players can score a point on every serve, and the game continues until one player reaches 21 points, with a minimum two-point advantage. If the score ties at 20-20, the game extends until a player leads by two points, up to a maximum of 30 points.
b. Doubles
In doubles, a game is also played to 21 points, but the serving and receiving teams have only one chance to score a point. Players rotate the serve within their team whenever they win a point.
Like singles, the game continues until one team reaches 21 points with a two-point advantage, or it goes up to 30 points if the score is tied at 20-20.
Scoring Rules:
a. Serving:
The serve is crucial in badminton, and it must be done diagonally to the opponent’s court. Both feet of the server must remain in contact with the ground until the shuttle is served. The shuttle must be below the server’s waist during the serve.
b. In-Play Rules:
The shuttlecock must land within the boundaries of the court for it to be considered “in.” If the shuttlecock hits the net and lands in the opponent’s court, it is considered a valid shot, except during service, where it results in a “let” and the serve is retaken. Players are not allowed to hit the shuttlecock twice in a row, and the shuttle must be struck with the racket’s head.
c. Faults:
A fault is committed when the shuttle lands outside the court boundaries, the player’s foot is on the boundary line while serving, or the shuttlecock gets caught in the net.
Conclusion:
Unraveling the mystery of badminton scoring and rules is essential for players and spectators alike. Understanding the intricacies of the scoring system and the rules governing the game can enhance your overall badminton experience. Whether you are a novice just starting or a seasoned player looking to sharpen your skills, mastering the scoring system and adhering to the rules will undoubtedly take your badminton journey to new heights. So, next time you witness an exhilarating badminton match, you can appreciate the strategy and skill that goes into every point played.