How Do You Score in Badminton?

Badminton is a popular racquet sport that combines agility, speed, and strategic thinking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding how to score in badminton is crucial to enjoying the game and improving your skills. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of scoring in badminton and provide you with valuable tips and techniques to maximize your score. So, let’s dive in!

How Do You Score in Badminton?

In badminton, scoring is based on a rally system, where points are earned by successfully hitting the shuttlecock over the net and landing it within the opponent’s court. The following section will break down the scoring system in badminton and explain how you can score points during a match.

Understanding the Basics of Scoring

Before we delve into the details, let’s establish the fundamental rules of scoring in badminton. The objective of the game is to score points by making the shuttlecock land within the boundaries of the opponent’s court. Each match is played in sets, and the first player or team to reach a certain number of points wins the set.

The Scoring System

In badminton, there are two primary scoring systems: the 21-point system and the 11-point system. The 21-point system is the most commonly used in professional matches, while the 11-point system is often used in casual or shorter games. For the purpose of this guide, we will focus on the 21-point system.

Rally Scoring

Rally scoring is a scoring system where a point is awarded to the winner of each rally, regardless of which player or team served the shuttlecock. This means that every serve is an opportunity to score a point, making each rally crucial for both players.

Serving and Receiving

In badminton, the server is the player who initiates each rally by serving the shuttlecock. The receiver is the player who stands opposite the server and tries to return the serve. The server continues to serve until they commit a fault or lose a rally. The receiver then becomes the server and serves from the opposite court.

Scoring Points

Points in badminton are scored in two ways:

a. When the Shuttlecock Lands In

If the shuttlecock lands within the boundaries of the opponent’s court, it is considered in, and the player who hit the shuttlecock scores a point. The shuttlecock must land on or within the boundary lines for the point to be awarded.

b. When the Opponent Commits a Fault

A fault occurs when a player violates the rules of the game, resulting in a point awarded to the opponent. Common faults include hitting the shuttlecock out of bounds, failing to serve properly, or making contact with the net during play.

Winning the Set

To win a set in badminton, a player or team must reach 21 points before their opponent. However, there is a catch. If the score reaches 20-20, the game enters a “setting” phase, where the first player or team to gain a two-point lead wins the set. In this situation, the game continues until one side establishes a two-point advantage.

Scoring in Doubles Matches

Doubles matches follow the same scoring rules as singles matches. The only difference is that the serving and receiving positions rotate among the players. In doubles, both teams have two players each, and they take turns serving and receiving according to the rotation order.

FAQs About Scoring in Badminton

Now, let’s address some common questions about scoring in badminton:

Is a shuttlecock hitting the net considered a fault?

No, hitting the net with the shuttlecock is not considered a fault unless it occurs during the serve. If the shuttlecock hits the net during a rally but still lands within the opponent’s court, the play continues, and the rally is not affected.

Can you score points when you are receiving?

Yes, in badminton, both the server and the receiver have an equal opportunity to score points. Unlike other racquet sports like tennis, where only the serving player can score, badminton allows both sides to earn points during a rally.

What happens if both players reach 20 points in a set?

If the score reaches 20-20 in a set, the game enters a “setting” phase. The first player or team to establish a two-point lead wins the set. The game continues until one side gains a two-point advantage.

Can you score points if the shuttlecock hits the line?

Yes, if the shuttlecock lands on or within the boundary lines, it is considered in, and the player who hit the shuttlecock scores a point. The lines are part of the playing area, and any shot that touches the line is considered in.

How many sets are played in a badminton match?

In professional badminton matches, the best of three sets is played. The player or team that wins two out of three sets is declared the winner of the match.

What happens if a player commits a fault while serving?

If a player commits a fault while serving, such as serving out of bounds or not following the proper service rules, the opponent is awarded a point, and the serve passes to the opponent.

Conclusion

Scoring in badminton is an essential aspect of the game that adds excitement and competitiveness. By understanding the scoring system and following the rules, you can maximize your scoring potential and enjoy the game to its fullest. Remember, practice and perseverance are key to improving your badminton skills and scoring more points. So, grab your racquet, hit the court, and strive for victory in every rally