How to Win a Badminton Match

Though not one of the more commonly played sports around the world, badminton is a popular game enjoyed by players of a variety of skill levels and athleticism. Like any sport, it is important to know how to win at the game before engaging in any serious competition. Knowing the rules and keys to winning will provide for a less confusing atmosphere and a more serious game. These rules are under the current International Badminton Federation (IBF) standards in use around the globe.

Instructions

    • 1

      Serve the shuttlecock (also called a birdie) over the net and volley until it hits the ground. You score a point if your opponent allows the birdie to hit the ground in-bounds on their side of the net or if she hits the birdie out of bounds.

    • 2

      Continue playing until you (or your team) wins 21 points.

    • 3

      If the game ends up tied at 20-20, continue playing until one side wins two straight points.

    • 4

      Continue playing until one team reaches 30 points if the game reaches 29-29.

    • 5

      Reserve a birdie that hits the net (results in a fault) when playing singles. There are no faults in doubles play, and only one serve is allowed.

    • 6

      Play the ball every time it is hit over the net and looks like it will land within the area of play. Any birdie landing outside of play is a lost point, as is any birdie not returned.

    • 7

      Win two out of three games in official international competition to win a match. Change playing sides after each game of a match, and change again after one team reaches six in the third game.

    • 8

      Serve from and receive a serve on the right side of play during even numbered points, and serve and receive from the left side during odd numbered points.