Badminton Rules and Gameplay

Overview

This summary explains the fundamental rules and gameplay of badminton, including scoring, serving, boundaries, faults, and unique rules for singles and doubles matches.

Basic Gameplay

• Badminton can be played as singles (1 vs 1) or doubles (2 vs 2).
• The objective is to win 2 sets before your opponent by scoring points.
• A set is won by scoring 21 points and being at least two points ahead.

Scoring and Sets

• If the score reaches 20-20, play continues until a 2-point lead is achieved.
• At 29-29, the first to 30 points wins the set without needing a 2-point lead.
• Each rally won earns a point and the right to serve.

Court and Equipment

• The court dimensions are 13.4m long and 6.1m wide; the net is 1.55m high.
• Court boundaries differ for singles and doubles play.
• The shuttlecock must be hit with a racket and must stay within the court lines.

Serving Rules

• Serve must be made below the waist and must land in the designated service area.
• Hitting the lines is considered in.

Rally and Shots

• Players hit the shuttlecock back and forth over the net in a rally, aiming for the opponent’s floor.
• Common shots include forehand, backhand, slice, touch, and smash.

Faults and Prohibited Actions

• Hitting the shuttlecock outside the play area, twice in succession, or into the net on your own side is not allowed.
• Touching the net or the shuttlecock with the body, and serving illegally, are also faults.
• Committing a fault awards a point to the opponent.

Special Rules

• “Let” is called if an unexpected event interrupts play, and the point is replayed.
• Unlike tennis, if the shuttlecock hits the net and goes over, play continues.

Decisions

• Winning a set requires 21 points with a 2-point lead, except at 30-29.
• A let results in a replay of the point.