Badminton

Badminton is a fast-paced racket sport played with a shuttlecock, which players hit back and forth over a net using lightweight rackets. The game can be played as singles or doubles on a rectangular court divided by a net. A rally begins with a serve, which must be hit underhand and diagonally across the court into the opponent’s service area. Players score points by landing the shuttlecock in the opponent’s court or when the opponent commits a fault, such as hitting the shuttle out of bounds or into the net.

Games are typically played to 21 points, and a point is scored on every rally, regardless of which side served. A match is usually the best of three games, and players must win by at least two points, with a cap at 30 points. During play, players must stay within court boundaries, avoid touching the net with their body or racket, and hit the shuttle only once per side. Badminton emphasizes quick reflexes, footwork, and precision, making it both a strategic and physically demanding sport.