National Governing Body Rules for Badminton

The United States Association of Badminton (USAB) governs badminton throughout the country. The USAB strictly adheres to the rules of the game as set forth by the World Badminton Federation (WBF). If you wish to play badminton competitively, you must learn all of the rules and regulations of the game. Even if you casually enjoy the game, these rules provide a good framework to structure your fun.

  1. Equipment

    • The WBF permits either a natural (feathered) or synthetic (non-feathered) shuttle in competitions. Feathered shuttles contain natural feathers. These feathers will be between 62 and 70 millimeters in length. Also, they must be on a diameter of 58 to 68 millimeters. The base of a feathered shuttle has to be between 25 and 28 millimeters and possess a rounded shape. The weight of the feathered shuttle must be between 4.74 and 5.5 grams. A non-feathered shuttle must replace the natural feathers of a feathered-shuttle with synthetic materials. All of the measurements and weights of the feathered shuttle must be adhered to; however, due to the nature of synthetic material, the WBF permits a variation of up to 10 percent from the feathered dimensions. A badminton racket needs to be less than 680 millimeter in length and 230 millimeters in width. The player must grasp the handle of the racket and hit the shuttle with the stringed area.

    Scoring

    • Badminton matches must consist of a best-of-three-game series. The first side to score 21 points will win a game. A team scores a point by either winning a rally or if the opposing side commits a fault. In the event the score becomes tied at 20, the first team to have a two-point lead wins the game. Alternatively, the first side to reach 30 points wins the game. The team that wins a game will serve first in the following game.

    The Service

    • For proper service to occur under WBF rules, neither side can cause a delay of the service. Doing so will result in a fault, and the other team will receive a point. The server must keep one or both feet on the ground during service. The server must first hit the base of the shuttle when serving. Also, the server must serve underhand. If they server's racket faces upwards while making initial contact with shuttle, it represents a fault, and the other team receives a point. Additionally, if the server misses the shuttle, it's a fault, and the other team receives a point. The server may not serve if the receiver appears unready, but if the receiver attempts to return the volley, the judge will deem the serve valid.