Understanding the dimensions of a badminton court helps players position correctly and reduces confusion during rallies. Precise measurements ensure fair play and consistent experience across clubs, tournaments, and home setups.
These specifications are standardized by world governing bodies to maintain uniformity in professional and recreational play.
| Area | Singles Width (m) | Doubles Width (m) | Overall Length (m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Court Width | 5.18 | 6.10 | 13.40 |
| Service Courts Depth | 3.85 | 3.85 | |
| Net Height | 1.55 | 1.55 | |
| Short Service Line to Net | 1.98 | 1.98 | 1.98 |
| Doubles Rear Service Line to Net | — | 0.76 | 0.76 |
Service Court Layout and Rules
The service courts are critical for starting each rally and differ between singles and doubles. Their depth and width define valid service zones.
Short Service Line Position
Located 1.98 meters from the net, this line establishes the front boundary for a legal serve in both singles and doubles. The serve must land beyond this line and within the correct diagonal box.
Long Service Line in Doubles
Set 0.76 meters before the back boundary, the doubles rear service line prevents low, defensive serves and keeps rallies dynamic. In singles, the entire back boundary is in play.
Side Lines and Playing Width
Side lines mark the outer boundaries and distinguish singles from doubles courts. Staying within these lines is essential for in or out decisions.
Singles vs Doubles Boundaries
In singles, the inner side lines are used, creating a narrower but longer feel. Doubles uses the outermost side lines, demanding wider movement and faster coverage across the 6.10 meter span.
Net and Back Boundary Specifications
The net divides the court and must be tensioned to the correct height for fair shots. The back boundary is the final reference for judging clear shots and smashes.
Net Height and Tension
At the center, the net hangs 1.524 meters above the floor, dipping slightly to 1.55 meters at the posts. Proper tension prevents the net from catching shuttles and affecting flight.
Back Boundary Line Role
The rearmost vertical line is 13.40 meters from the net. It defines the limit for clears and drop shots, and works with the short service lines to structure offensive and defensive play.
Key Takeaways for Players
- Measure 13.40 meters for full court length to set up regulation play.
- Mark 5.18 meter inner side lines for singles and 6.10 meter outer lines for doubles. place 1.98 meters from net to short service line for accurate serving.
- Respect the 1.55 meter net height at the posts and 1.524 meter at the center for fair net play.
- Use the doubles rear service line 0.76 meters from the back boundary to enforce service rules.
FAQ
Reader questions
How wide is a badminton court for doubles play? The doubles court width is 6.10 meters, measured between the outer side lines. What is the distance between the short service line and the net?
The short service line is positioned 1.98 meters from the net on both sides of the court.
Why are there different side lines for singles and doubles?
Singles uses inner side lines to narrow the court, while doubles uses the full 6.10 meter width for more lateral coverage and longer rallies.
What is the exact overall length of a badminton court?
The total length of a badminton court is 13.40 meters from the back boundary on one side to the back boundary on the other.