Official Badminton

Badminton Etiquette

Badminton Etiquette came about to facilitate fun, fair and pleasant play. Before beginning a match, introduce yourself to your opponent or opponents. It is usual to shake hands and smile and/or nod to acknowledge your opponent and to show that though you intend to win the match, you respect your opponent's skill, or at least presence at the game.

It is customary to bring shuttles to the court and not expect them to be provided by other players. Make sure that the shuttles are in good condition, with all feathers in excellent order before hand. No one likes to play with a shuttle with the feathers falling out or broken, causing uneven flight of the "birdie".

Be considerate and cooperate with opponents during warm-up. Make sure everyone in doubles matches are given an equal and ample opportunity to hit a variety of shots before the match begins. Warming up makes for more flexible play, with injuries, and mistakes less likely.

It is the responsibility of badminton players to call all faults on their own side of the net fairly and objectively, treating opponents justly will most often get the same response when the situation is reversed. Badminton etiquette also requires players to respect opponents calls without argument. If there is an official presiding at the match then the official's decisions should be respected.

When a player makes an illegal shot, such as slinging the shuttle, inadvertently touching the net, or any other illegal action, the player committing the act should call it immediately. Mutual respect in playing the game fairly is important in maintaining amity throughout the match.

When an opponent scores, return the shuttle with a light underhand stroke. This shows respect and acceptance of the shot; making an acknowledgement of an exceptional shot is also polite.

It is good etiquette to not talk to an opponent or to deliberately distracting him during play. Talking to spectators or coaches during play is completely unacceptable and considered very rude.

It is customary and expected for a player to announce the score before service. This is should be announced with the server's score first and the receiver's second. If there is an official he or she will usually do this.

Good badminton etiquette means keeping a calm temperament, irrespective of how cross or frustrated a player may become while facing adversity or victory on the court.

Whether a player wins or loses the match she should always shake hands with the opponent when the match is completed.

Good sportsmanship and keeping to the Badminton code of Etiquette is imperative to maintaining sportsman-like conduct throughout the match. Remember, all faults should be accepted graciously; always treat an opponent as you would like them to treat you!