Badminton has been a popular sport for many years. It has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, thanks to the success of some of the world’s top players. As the sport has evolved, so have the rules and regulations, and there have been a number of changes in the last few years. In this article, we take a look at some of the most significant changes to the rules of badminton.
The Introduction of the 21-Point System
One of the most significant changes to the rules of badminton is the introduction of the 21-point system, which has been in place since 2005. This new system has replaced the older 15-point system, with the aim of making the game faster and more exciting. The 21-point system means that a match is won when a player reaches 21 points and is two points ahead of his opponent. This reduces the duration of the match, making it more enjoyable for spectators and players alike.
The Introduction of the ‘Let’ Rule
Another important change to the rules of badminton is the introduction of the ‘let’ rule. This rule states that if a shuttlecock touches the net during a rally, the point is replayed, unless the receiver is at fault. This rule aims to reduce the number of disputed points in a match, and makes the game more fair for both players.
The Scoring System
The scoring system has also been changed in recent years. Previously, a point was won when the shuttlecock landed in the opponent’s court. However, now a point is awarded when the shuttlecock is not returned by the opponent. This encourages players to be more aggressive, as they can now score points without having to make a successful return.
Serving Rules
The rules regarding serving have also been changed in recent years. Previously, the server had to make a clear toss of the shuttlecock before making the serve. Now, the server can make a jump serve, where they can jump before making contact with the shuttlecock. This makes the game faster and more dynamic, as players can now serve with more power and speed.
Height Restrictions
In order to ensure fairness, the rules have been changed to restrict the height of the net. Previously, the net could be any height, but now it must be kept between 1.15m and 1.55m. This makes the game more equal between the players, as it prevents one player from having an advantage due to their height.
Conclusion
Badminton is a fast-paced and exciting sport, and the rules have been changed over the years to make it an even more thrilling experience. The introduction of the 21-point system and the ‘let’ rule have made the game faster and fairer, while the changes to the serving and scoring rules have made the game more dynamic. The height restriction on the net has also ensured that the game is fair for all players. All of these changes have made badminton an even more exciting sport to watch and play.