Badminton is a racquet sport played either in singles (one player per side) or doubles (two players per side). The game is played with a shuttlecock, a feathered or synthetic projectile, which is hit back and forth over a net. The goal is to score focuses via handling the shuttlecock in the adversary’s side of the court.
Key elements of badminton include:
- Court: The game is played on a rectangular court divided by a net. The court is smaller than that used for tennis but similar in shape.
- Shuttlecock: Also known as a birdie, the shuttlecock has an open conical shape with feathers or a synthetic skirt attached to a cork or rubber base. Players hit it with their racquets to score points.
- Racquet: Badminton players use lightweight racquets, usually made of graphite or carbon fiber, with a stringed hitting surface.
- Scoring: Points are scored when the shuttlecock lands in the opponent’s side of the court or if the opponent commits a fault (e.g., hitting the shuttlecock out of bounds, stepping on the lines, etc.).
Badminton is known for its fast-paced nature, requiring quick reflexes, agility, and precise shot placement. It is a popular recreational sport and a highly competitive sport at the professional level, with events held at the Olympic Games and various international tournaments.