Who can play para badminton?
A · Advanced · Classes and equipment · 1 of 3Players need an eligible physical impairment: impaired muscle power or range of movement, limb deficiency or length difference, short stature or a coordination impairment. The impairment must meet the minimum criteria, such as the WH2 requirements for wheelchair play. A classification panel watches the player perform badminton movements on court and sets the class.
How it works
- Eligible impairments: physical only.
- Minimum criteria, wheelchair: the WH2 requirements.
- Minimum criteria, standing legs: the SL4 requirements.
- Others: the criteria for the class.
- Assessment: observation on court.
- SH6 under 18: chromosomal diagnosis and measured at each event.
- SH6 age: over 13.
- Foot exceptions: listed by the Head of Classification.
The glossary has the eligible impairments (para badminton), the minimum impairment criteria (para badminton), the sport class assessment (para badminton), the SH6, the WH1 and WH2 and the foot-contact exceptions.
Tricky cases
Is a vision impairment eligible?
No.
Can a 12-year-old be classified SH6?
No. The player must be over 13.
Who confirms a foot-contact exception?
The Head of Classification.
Can classification change an entry?
Yes. Entries may be changed by classification.
Why the rule exists
Minimum criteria make sure the impairment truly affects play. Watching real movements shows how it affects badminton.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchair | WH2 criteria | CR A1 3.2.1 |
| Standing, lower limb | SL4 criteria | CR A1 3.2.2 |
| Short stature | Measurements | CR A1 4.4 |
From the rule book
The Para Badminton Classification Regulations, 5 August 2025, Appendix 1, sections 1 to 4, with BWF, Laws of Badminton, version 6.0 (in force 4 January 2027), Law 9.1.4.2. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: BWF Statutes, Sections 4.1 and 5.5.