How to Return Serve in Badminton (Doubles and Singles)

How do you return serve well in badminton? Stand ready to move forward, meet a low serve early and high so you can push or dribble it downwards, and stay balanced so a flick serve doesn''t catch you leaning in. A good return takes the attack away from the server.

The ready position for returning

In doubles, stand close to the short service line, racket up and weight forward, ready to pounce on the low serve — but not so committed that a flick sails over you. It is a balance between pressure and protection.

Returning the low serve

• Rush it — take it early and high, then push flat or tap down to seize the attack.
• Net dribble — a tight return forces a lift and hands you the initiative.
• Avoid lifting — a lazy lift off the serve just gives the server a free smash.

Handling the flick

If you get flicked, don''t panic-smash from behind you — a controlled clear or drop to regain position is smarter than a rushed, off-balance attack.

Singles is different

In singles you stand further back and centrally; the priority is a controlled return to a back corner or a tight net shot, not an all-out attack.

Win the first exchange more often

Track your games on Badminton 360 and you''ll see how much taking control of the serve return lifts your results.