How Was Badminton Named?

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Badminton is one of the most popular sports in the world, enjoyed by millions of people of all ages. It is a racquet sport played by two or four players in which a shuttlecock is hit across a net. While the sport is widely played today, many are unaware of the interesting history of badminton and how it was named.

Table of Contents hide
1. Origins of Badminton
2. Badminton Association
3. The Game Spreads Worldwide
4. Conclusion

Origins of Badminton

The origins of badminton can be traced back to the British military station in India during the 1870s. It is believed that the game was initially adapted from the game of poona, which was popular among British soldiers. The game was then known as Poona or “Poonah” and was played on an outdoor court.

In 1873, the Duke of Beaufort hosted a Badminton House party and invited the officers who had been playing the game in India. It was at this party that the game was officially introduced to the British public and the name “Badminton” was coined.

Badminton Association

In 1893, the Badminton Association was formed in the United Kingdom and it became the first governing body of the sport. The association set down rules for the game and introduced the first badminton tournament in 1899. The tournament was held at the prestigious All England Club and it quickly gained popularity with the British public.

The Game Spreads Worldwide

By the early 1900s, badminton had spread across the world, with countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa all holding their own badminton tournaments. By the 1950s, badminton had become a popular sport in many countries and an international governing body, the International Badminton Federation (IBF) was established in 1934.

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially recognized badminton as an Olympic sport in 1992 and it has been part of the Summer Olympic Games ever since.

Conclusion

Badminton is one of the most popular sports in the world and its origins can be traced back to the British military station in India during the 1870s. The game was originally known as Poona or “Poonah” and it was at a party hosted by the Duke of Beaufort in 1873 that the game was officially introduced to the British public and the name “Badminton” was coined. The game has since spread across the world and is now an Olympic sport.