The long-awaited global sporting event, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, are about to capture the hearts and minds of millions of French people and sports fans around the world. Taking place from July 26 to August 11, these games promise to dazzle the entire planet with top-level athletic performances. Among the many sports on show, badminton is one of those attracting particular attention...
Badminton, although widely recognized today as a dynamic sport requiring speed and reflexes, has its roots in ancient games played over 2,000 years ago in Asia. It evolved from games such as ti jian zi in China, where players used their feet instead of rackets to propel a shuttlecock. However, it was in India that the game took on a form similar to the one we know today, under the name of Poona.
British officers stationed in India in the 19th century discovered the game and brought it back to England. There it was introduced as"Badminton", named after the Duke of Beaufort 's residence where the game was first played. The basic principle of badminton is simple: two or four players exchange a shuttlecock, using rackets, over a net, seeking to land it in the opponent's half-court without the opponent being able to return it. Speed and strategy are essential, as the shuttlecock, despite its light appearance, can be launched at speeds exceeding 300 km/h in the most powerful shots.
Badminton has come a long way since its first appearance at the Olympic Games. It made its Olympic debut at the Barcelona Games in 1992. Since then, the sport has seen some of the world's greatest talents battle for Olympic glory. The fast-paced, dynamic nature of the game makes it a captivating spectacle for spectators.
Although not traditionally considered a major badminton power, France has its own rising stars. Among them are the Popov brothers, currently France's top two badminton players, who have impressed on the international scene. They include Arnaud Merklé and Alex Lanier. Also among the world's best are Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue (ranked 8th in mixed), Margot Lambert and Anne Tran (ranked 26th) and Lucas Corvée and Ronan Labar (ranked 31st in doubles). French athletes who will be looking to make a place in the sun in the history of badminton, on the occasion of these Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Where can you play badminton in Paris and the Ile-de-France region?
Discover the joys of badminton, the "tennis of the sky", a fast-growing sport in Paris! Combining physical training and concentration, badminton is becoming increasingly popular with Parisians. From the sport's rich heritage to its current popularity in the Paris region, delve into the world of badminton and find out where you can hone your skills in FFBaD-affiliated clubs! [Read more]
Following these Games closely, badminton fans and athletes in general can look forward to memorable moments, passionate performances and inspiring stories of determination and perseverance. Ready to follow the badminton events, folks?
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
Where can you play badminton in Paris and the Ile-de-France region?
