ABSTRACT
Shuttlecocks have been used for ludic or play-based activities in ancient Asia, North America, South America and Europe for hundreds of years, with the first shuttlecock game believed to have taken place in ancient China dynasties. The term “badminton” is believed to derive from the Duke of Beaufort’s “Badminton House” in Gloucestershire, England, because children were known to play battledore in Badminton House. The modern game of badminton began in India in the late 19th century, after being invented by British Imperial officers. From the very beginning, women have been part of the badminton game and its development, unlike most sports. The rules were written so that the game would be as fair as possible when women played against men. Badminton, as a sport, developed quickly. As a result, it went through a phase of sportification and spread to other countries. Badminton became globally recognized when it was admitted to the Olympic Games in 1992. Today, badminton is dominated by North Europe and Asian countries, which take up most of the silverware in the major tournaments. Large badminton competitions include the All England and World Badminton Championship, as well as team competitions (e.g., Thomas Cup, Uber Cup, Surdiman Cup).
