Badminton is the second most played sport in the world. More people play badminton than basketball, golf, tennis and a whole host of other sports.
An estimated 220 million people play badminton regularly, Of the 220 million people that regularly play badminton, a majority of those live in Asia, specifically in China and South Korea.
"Badminton’s popularity in China has skyrocketed in recent years"
Badminton is popular in Asia because the continent’s dominance in badminton generates fame and the desire to seek fame, badminton has a low barrier for participation, and badminton is widely accessible in school programs and recreational facilities. As the popularity of the badminton scene increases, it encourages more participation and interest in the sport, which in turn creates even more players!
In Asia, badminton is huge. As a region with a growing number of players, Asia is home to the vast majority of badminton players worldwide. More than having the lion’s share of badminton players, Asia is also where seven out of 10 most popular badminton-playing countries are. These countries, according to Sportsver, are:
- China
- South Korea
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Thailand
- Singapore
- Japan
Badminton has become the most popular sport among Chinese people
Badminton’s popularity in China has skyrocketed in recent years, credited by officials in the Chinese Badminton Association to a range of factors that make it easily accessible to amateurs.
Affordable equipment, self-determined levels of intensity, the ease with which new players can learn the basics, and indoor courts that allow for play in all weather conditions make the sport attractive for both those seeking a serious commitment and those looking for a relaxing hobby.
At a press conference following the final match of the Red Bull Super Final Amateur Badminton Tournament, Li Yongbo, head coach of the Chinese national team, said he was “happy and excited that so many more people are participating in recreational badminton” and that “badminton has become the most popular sport among Chinese people”.
A tournament that has grown significantly since the start in 2010.
More than 500,000 amateur badminton players from all over China participated now in this tournament.
Growing popularity In India
In India, badminton is the fastest growing sport, second only to cricket. You will find institutions all over the country, especially in cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore.