Badminton is one of the most popular sports in the world, played by millions of people of all ages and abilities. It is a racket sport that has evolved over the centuries and is now a popular competitive and recreational activity. But when was the badminton game officially granted as a sport? In this article, we will explore the history of badminton and how it became an officially recognized sport.
Origins of Badminton
Badminton is believed to have originated in India as early as the 18th century. The game was influenced by a similar game called Poona, which was popular in British India. The earliest surviving reference to badminton is in an 1877 edition of the Oxford Magazine. The game was first played by British military officers stationed in India, and it quickly became a popular pastime among the British upper classes.
First Badminton Clubs
The first badminton club was established in 1887 in Gloucestershire, England. This club was called the Bath Badminton Club and it is believed to be the first organized badminton club in the world. The club was founded by Sir George Thomas, a prominent British badminton player. The club was soon followed by the Guildford Badminton Club and the Manchester Badminton Club.
The Badminton Association
In 1893, the Badminton Association (BA) was founded in England. The founding members of the BA included Sir George Thomas and other prominent British badminton players. The BA was established to promote the sport of badminton and to organize national tournaments and competitions. The BA is now the governing body of badminton in England.
First International Badminton Tournament
In 1899, the first international badminton tournament was held in London. It was organized by the BA, and it featured teams from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The tournament was won by the English team, who defeated the Irish team in the final. The tournament was a great success, and it helped to popularize the sport of badminton throughout the world.
International Badminton Federation
In 1934, the International Badminton Federation (IBF) was established. The IBF was founded by the BA, and it was the first international governing body for badminton. The IBF was responsible for organizing international tournaments and competitions, and it helped to promote the sport of badminton throughout the world.
When Was Badminton Formally Established as a Sport?
Badminton was officially recognized as a sport in 1936, when the IBF held its first world championships in London. This event marked the official start of international badminton competition, and it helped to further popularize the sport. Since then, badminton has grown to become one of the most popular sports in the world, with millions of people playing it in their leisure time.
Conclusion
Badminton is a sport that has been around for centuries, but it was not until 1936 that the game was formally established as a sport. The IBF’s world championships in London marked the official start of international badminton competition, and it helped to popularize the sport throughout the world. Since then, badminton has grown to become one of the most popular sports in the world, with millions of people playing it in their leisure time.