Para badminton, the fastest racquet sport in the world, is set to spice up the Paralympic program this summer alongside taekwondo and 20 other sports at Tokyo 2020. As one of the newest additions to the Paralympics, Para badminton is expected to captivate viewers on one of the grandest stages in the world. Although it is making its debut at the Games, Para badminton has been played internationally since the 1990s. The sport gained significant recognition in 2014 when the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) selected it for Tokyo 2020 following a bid by the Badminton World Federation (BWF). Since then, Para badminton has experienced remarkable growth, attracting athletes from nearly 50 countries to compete in events like men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
A Brief History
Para badminton’s journey began with the first World Championships held in 1998 in Amersfoort, Netherlands. The event, which has been taking place every two years since 2001, paved the way for the sport’s rise to prominence. In recent years, Para badminton has gained popularity, attracting over 300 athletes from almost 50 countries at the 2019 World Championships in Basel, Switzerland.
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Rules and Scoring
The rules and setup of Para badminton closely mirror those of regular badminton. Players score points by hitting the shuttlecock over the net without it being returned. Matches consist of the best of three games, with the first player to reach 21 points winning. The net’s height remains the same, and the events include categories for men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
However, there are some differences specific to Para badminton. The sport features six athlete classes, ensuring a level playing field for athletes with different abilities. This includes two wheelchair classes (WH 1 and 2) and four standing classes (SL 3 and 4, SU, and SS). In singles matches, wheelchair and standing players on half-court compete. In these matches, wheelchair doubles, and mixed doubles, the area in front of the service line is considered out of bounds. Wheelchair Para badminton athletes also use adapted chairs that provide balance and mobility, such as chairs with low backrests and extra wheels at the back.
Key Terms and Phrases
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To fully enjoy Para badminton, familiarize yourself with some of the terminology used in the sport:
- Clear: A high, deep shot to push the opponent to the back of the court.
- Drop: A shot that barely clears the net.
- Lift: A generic term for an upward shot.
- Net: A shot from the forecourt that just clears the net.
- Smash: An overhead, powerful attacking shot.
Target Tokyo 2020
The 2020 Paralympics will feature 14 medal events in Para badminton, including seven for men, six for women, and one mixed tournament. A total of 90 players, comprising 44 men and 46 women, will compete in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events. The different categories include Singles WH 1, Singles WH 2, Singles SL 3, Singles SL 4, Singles SU 5, Singles SH 6, Doubles WH, and Doubles SL/SU. Athletes have been participating in BWF international tournaments worldwide to qualify for Tokyo 2020. Their performance in these tournaments earns them ranking points, determining their international ranking and helping their National Paralympic Committees select athletes for the Games.
FAQs
Q: How long has Para badminton been played internationally?
A: Para badminton has been played internationally since the 1990s.
Q: How many athletes competed in last year’s Para badminton World Championships?
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A: Last year’s Para badminton World Championships saw over 300 athletes from almost 50 countries compete.
Q: What are the different categories in Para badminton?
A: Para badminton includes categories for men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
Q: How many medal events will be held for Para badminton at the 2020 Paralympics?
A: The 2020 Paralympics will feature 14 medal events in Para badminton.
Summary
Para badminton is set to make its debut at the 2020 Paralympics in Tokyo, alongside taekwondo and other sports. As the fastest racquet sport in the world, Para badminton promises to entertain viewers on a global scale. The sport has a rich history, with international competition dating back to the 1990s. Since being selected for the Paralympics in 2014, Para badminton has grown in popularity, attracting athletes from nearly 50 countries. The sport follows similar rules and scoring to regular badminton, with minor differences to accommodate different athlete classes. With 14 medal events in total, Para badminton offers a thrilling experience for athletes and spectators alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this exciting sport at Tokyo 2020!
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