Let in Badminton: Complete Guide to Definition and Rules
In badminton, a let occurs when the game pauses and the rally is restarted without anyone scoring. The umpire or players in informal matches can declare a let if something unusual takes place, such as a shuttlecock from a different court landing in play, a player being distracted, or the shuttlecock getting stuck on top of the net after a valid shot. Unlike a fault, which awards a point to your opponent, a let simply restarts the rally. The score remains unchanged, and the same server serves again from the same position.
Image source: Frame grab from (“UMPV2 – Lets (Service)”) © Youtube(@BWFDevelopment)
The BWF Rules: When is a Let called in Badminton?
1.Service Mix‑Ups
- Server serves out of turn or from the wrong court.
- Receiver isn’t ready (and doesn’t try to return).
2.Both Sides Mess Up
- If both players commit a fault at the same time like one touches the net while the other foot‑faults, it’s a let.
3.Random Interruptions
- Shuttle from another court lands in yours.
- Shuttle gets stuck in the net after going over.
- Shuttle breaks mid‑rally.
- Anything unexpected such as loud noise, ball rolling in, etc.
4.Line Judge Can’t See
- If the line judge is blocked and the umpire can’t decide, they’ll call a let.
5.Weird Racket Catch
- If the shuttle gets trapped in your strings right after a hit (without you holding it), the umpire might call a let.
6.Let Serve? Not Anymore
- Unlike tennis, if your serve clips the net but still lands in the right service box, play continues, so no let.
- A service let only happens if it doesn’t land in the correct court.
