Explained: Para-Badminton and its categories

Para-badminton is a relatively new sport in the Paralympics, making its debut at the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021.

It uses specific classification systems to ensure fair competition among athletes with diverse physical impairments.

Originating in the 1990s, para-badminton held its first World Championships in 1998 and now operates under the jurisdiction of the Badminton World Federation (BWF).

A primary distinction between para-badminton and able-bodied badminton is the classification system, which groups players into six categories based on impairment to ensure fair competition.

Additionally, assistive devices such as prosthetics or wheelchairs are permitted, promoting a level playing field for athletes to perform at their peak potential.

Let’s take a look at the six categories recognized by the Badminton World Federation.

1. WH1 (Wheelchair/severe impairment):

• Severe impairments in both lower limbs and trunk function.
• Requires a wheelchair for mobility and play on a half-court.
• Examples: Spinal injury affecting upper limbs/trunk, scoliosis, multiple sclerosis.

2. WH2 (Wheelchair/minor impairment):

• Impairments in one or both lower limbs but minimal to no trunk impairment.
• Requires a wheelchair and plays on a half-court.
• Examples: Spinal injury with lower impairment to upper limbs/trunk, spina bifida, above-knee amputation requiring a wheelchair.

3. SL3 (Standing/lower limb impairment/severe):

• Significant impairments in one or both lower limbs affecting walking/running balance.
• Compete standing up on a half-court.
• Examples: Single above-knee amputation, double below-knee amputation, cerebral palsy.

4. SL4 (Standing/lower limb impairment/minor):

• Less severe lower limb impairments than SL3, with better walking/running balance.
• Play standing up on a full court.
• Examples: Single below-knee amputation, cerebral palsy, hip dysplasia, leg length difference (minimum 7cm).

5. SU5 (Standing/upper limb impairment):

• Impairments affecting their upper limbs.
• Compete standing up on a full court.
• Examples: Upper limb amputation, upper limb impairment (e.g. brachial plexus injury).

6. SH6 (Standing/short stature):

• Short stature due to conditions like achondroplasia or other genetic factors.
• Compete standing up on a full court.
• Example: Short stature/dwarf condition.

India's Focus at the Paris Paralympics

India secured 13 spots through the BWF Para-Badminton Race to Paris Paralympic Rankings, matching China for the largest badminton contingent from any country.

This achievement highlights the growing talent and potential of para-badminton in India.

Indian shuttlers won several medals, including two golds, at the Tokyo Paralympics. In Paris, they will aim to build on this success and further improve their performance.

Indian shuttlers at the Paris Paralympics: 

SL3 (Standing/lower limb impairment/severe): Manoj Sarkar, Kumar Nitesh, Manasi Joshi, Mandeep Kaur.

SL4 (Standing/lower limb impairment/minor): Suhas Yathiraj, Sukant Kadam, Tarun Dhillon, Palak Kohli.

SU5 (Standing/upper limb impairment): Thulasimathi Murugesan, Manisha Ramadass.

SH6 (Standing/short stature): Krishna Nagar, Sivarajan Solaimalai, Nithya Sre Sivan.