If you’re a fan of racquet sports, you may have come across two popular games, badminton and pickleball. While both are fun and challenging, they have some key differences that set them apart. Each of these games also has its own fan base on Reddit, the popular discussion website. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of badminton and pickleball to understand their similarities, differences, and why they have such a devoted following on Reddit.
The History of Badminton and Pickleball
Badminton: The history of badminton dates back to ancient Greece where a game similar to modern-day badminton was played with sticks and a shuttlecock. Over time, this game evolved into what we know as badminton today. The first official badminton rules were drafted in 1873 and the sport gained worldwide popularity in the late 19th century. Today, badminton is recognized as an Olympic sport and has a large following in countries like China, Indonesia, and India.
Pickleball: In contrast, pickleball has a relatively short history. It was invented in 1965 by a former politician, Joel Pritchard, and two of his friends as a game to entertain their families at a summer party. The game combines elements of badminton, tennis, and ping pong, and grew in popularity primarily in the United States. Today, it is played in over 5,000 locations around the world and has a dedicated community on Reddit.
Key Differences Between Badminton and Pickleball
Playing Surface: One of the fundamental differences between badminton and pickleball is the playing surface. Badminton is played on a rectangular court that measures 13.4m x 6.1m for singles and 13.4m x 5.18m for doubles, with a net dividing the court in half. On the other hand, pickleball is played on a smaller court, measuring 6.1m x 13.4m for both singles and doubles, with a lower net in the center. Pickleball is also played on a hard surface, while badminton can be played on various surfaces such as grass, concrete, or wooden flooring.
Rackets and Balls: Another key difference is in the equipment used. Badminton players use lightweight rackets made of carbon fiber, while pickleball players use paddles made of wood, composite, or graphite. The shuttlecock used in badminton is also different from pickleballs, which are small plastic balls with holes, similar to a wiffle ball.
Scoring System: The scoring system for badminton and pickleball is also quite different. In badminton, a match consists of three games to 21 points with a player needing to win by two points. In pickleball, a match is typically played to 11 points with two points needed to win. Furthermore, in badminton, the serve must be hit diagonally while in pickleball, the serve can be hit anywhere behind the baseline.
The Importance of Badminton and Pickleball on Reddit
Badminton and pickleball have dedicated communities on Reddit with thousands of members. Both communities are used to discuss everything from the latest news and highlights to equipment recommendations and techniques. On the r/badminton subreddit, you can find dedicated threads for tournament discussions, equipment reviews, and even memes related to the sport. Similarly, the r/pickleball community is active with members sharing their experiences, asking for advice, and even hosting virtual tournaments during the pandemic.
Both badminton and pickleball communities on Reddit also serve as a platform for players to connect with others who share their passion for these sports. Many members use Reddit to find and connect with friends for casual games or to seek out playing partners in their local area. Additionally, the forums provide a space for players to share their experiences, ask for tips, and celebrate their victories.
Conclusion
So, which one is better, badminton or pickleball? That’s a tough question to answer as it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both games have their own unique characteristics and offer their own challenges and thrills. However, one thing is for sure, the communities on Reddit for both badminton and pickleball are incredibly passionate and welcoming, making them great places for fans of the sports to connect and share their love for the game.
