Safety & wellbeing⏱ 2 min read
Eye Safety at the Net
A shuttle travels fast and fits the eye socket. Simple habits that protect your eyes, especially in doubles.
Eye injuries in badminton are uncommon but can be serious, because a fast shuttle is small enough to hit the eye directly. Most happen in doubles, often to the player at the net, or from a partner's racket.
Reduce the risk
- Racket up in front of your face at the net. It protects you and makes you faster.
- Do not turn round to watch your partner hit from the back; face the net and watch the opponents.
- Agree with your partner who takes the middle, to avoid swinging into each other.
- Consider protective sports eyewear, especially for children, newer players and anyone who has had an eye injury. Ordinary glasses are not designed to stop a shuttle.
If you are hit in the eye
Stop playing. Blurred or reduced vision, pain, a visible change in the eye, or seeing flashes or floaters needs urgent medical attention. Do not rub the eye.
Key takeaways
- Racket up at the net, and never turn round to watch your partner.
- Consider protective eyewear, especially for kids and beginners.
- Any vision change after a hit needs urgent medical help.
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