Understand What Is A Fault In Badminton: Here are some ways to stay on safer side
A fault in badminton is any mistake that stops play and gives a point to the opponent.
If the shuttle does not land where it should.
If a rule is broken.
If the rally ends unfairly.
That moment is called a fault.
Here, I recall my first proper game. I thought I won a point with a smash. My friend smiled and said fault. My foot was inside the wrong service box. That is how most players learn.
Why Faults Matter in a Badminton Game?
Badminton is fast. Decisions happen in seconds. Faults keep the game fair.
They decide points.
They stop arguments.
They protect the rhythm of the match.
Once you understand faults, the game feels calmer and cleaner.
Common Faults You See During a Match:
Many faults happen without bad intention. Most are simple mistakes.
- Hitting the shuttle outside the court.
- Letting the shuttle hit the floor on your side.
- Hitting the shuttle twice.
- Touching the net with your racket or body.
- Carrying the shuttle on the racket instead of hitting it cleanly.
These faults end the rally immediately.
Service Faults Made Simple:
Serving is where most beginners lose points.
A service becomes a fault when:
- The shuttle is hit above waist level.
- The racket shaft does not point downward.
- Feet are not inside the service court.
- Both feet are moving during the serve.
This is why service practice matters more than people think.
Net and Body Related Faults:
Some faults happen near the net.
- Touching the net while the rally is live.
- Reaching over the net to hit the shuttle.
- Blocking the opponent’s movement.
Even light contact with the net counts as a fault.
Faults in Singles and Doubles:
The rules stay the same.
Only court size and service order change. Faults apply equally in singles and doubles. No special exceptions.
A Small Match Memory
I once watched a close school match. Game point. One player rushed forward and tapped the net while celebrating. The umpire called fault. The point went the other way.
Silence. Then learning.
Badminton teaches control as much as skill.
How to Avoid Faults While Playing?
- Slow down during serves
- Watch your foot position
- Respect the net space
- Focus on clean contact
Most faults disappear with awareness. Not power.
Final Thought:
A fault in badminton is not a punishment. It is a reminder. It reminds you to play clean. Follow the rules. Respect the opponent.
Once you stop fearing faults, you start playing smarter. And that’s where the game becomes more enjoyable.