Can a badminton player stop for a rest or to talk to the coach?
A · Advanced · Conduct, stoppages and officials · 1 of 4Checked 13 October 2026
No.
Play must be continuous from the first serve to the end of the match, except in the set intervals. A player may not
delay play to get their breath back or to take advice, and may not leave the court without the umpire's permission.
Coaching is allowed only between rallies, without holding up the next serve.
How it works
- Continuous play applies outside the 60-second and 120-second intervals.
- No delay to recover strength or wind, or to receive advice. The umpire is the sole judge of delay.
- Advice may be given only when the shuttle is not in play and before the players have taken position to serve and receive.
- No leaving the court without the umpire's permission, except in the intervals.
- The umpire can suspend play for things outside the players' control, and the referee can order it. The score stands and play resumes from there.
- Breaking these rules is dealt with as misconduct: a warning first, then a fault.
Tricky cases
Can a player ask to wipe sweat or change a racket?
Yes, with the umpire's permission and without delaying play.
Can the coach shout instructions during a rally?
No. Advice is allowed only when the shuttle is not in play. A coach who distracts the opponents causes a let.
Why the rule exists
Fitness is part of badminton. Letting a tired player stop the game would take away an advantage the fitter player has earned.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| All badminton under the BWF Laws | As above | L16.1 to 16.5 |
| Wheelchair badminton | One extra interval may be allowed to catheterise | L16.5.3 |
From the rule book
BWF Laws of Badminton, Laws 14.2.5 and 16, version 5.0, in force from 26 April 2025. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: BWF Laws of Badminton (PDF).