The Racket and Shuttle: A Condensed History of Badmintonbr Badminton's story spans millennia, evolving from a simple playtime diversion into a major global sport.br br Origins and Naming (Facts)br The game’s roots trace back over 2,000 years to the ancient pastime of "battledore and shuttlecock," played widely in Eurasia. The modern competitive form crystallized in 19th-century India, known then as "Poona," adopted by British Army officers stationed there.br br The sport received its permanent name in 1873 at Badminton House, the Duke of Beaufort’s estate in England, where it was introduced to the aristocracy. Formal rules were standardized by the Badminton Association of England in 1893. The sport achieved its highest recognition when it debuted as an Olympic medal event at the 1992 Barcelona Games.br br Myth and Nomenclaturebr Though named after the Duke's estate, the core game was a British adaptation of the Indian "Poona." The legendary craftsmanship of the traditional shuttlecock, which utilizes 16 feathers (ideally from a goose's left wing), underscores the sport's unique blend of precision and history.br br A Sport for Health and Funbr Beyond elite competition, badminton is a versatile activity prized for both health and entertainment. As one of the world's fastest racket sports, it offers a superb, low-impact cardiovascular workout that builds speed, agility, and mental acuity. Its ease of setup and accessibility also make it a universally popular choice for casual play, family fun, and social fitness worldwide.