Badminton, often celebrated for its fast-paced thrill, also witnesses moments of endurance and grit that go beyond speed, moments that define history. At the heart of this high-octane sport lie some of the longest rallies and marathon matches, which have pushed the limits of physical and mental resilience. From intense Grand Slam encounters to surprise performances in early rounds, the sport has seen rallies crossing the 200-shot mark and matches lasting more than 2 hours. Here's a deep dive into the most iconic rallies and longest matches in badminton history.
PV Sindhu’s Record Shattered: A New Benchmark in Women’s Singles
Until recently, Indian badminton star PV Sindhu and Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi held the record for the longest women’s singles rally, 124 shots during the 2023 All England Open. However, this monumental feat was eclipsed in 2024 when An Se-young of South Korea and Wang Zhiyi of China engaged in an unforgettable 211-shot rally in the quarterfinals of the All England Championships. This epic exchange lasted for over 2 minutes and became the longest rally in women’s singles history.
This rally wasn't just about endurance; it was a mental chess game. With precise footwork, cross-court placements, and deceptive flicks, both players gave it their all. The rally concluded with An Se-young taking the point, although both athletes were visibly drained. This moment reflected the sport’s evolution, where fitness, tactics, and patience now matter as much as aggression and speed.
Men’s Singles: A 256-Shot Rally That Shook the Sport
The record for the longest rally in men’s singles belongs to the 2022 Korea Open, during a match between Hong Kong's Lee Cheuk Yiu and Taiwan's Chou Tien Chen. Their rally clocked an astonishing 256 shots, lasting nearly 4 minutes. What stood out was not just the number but the intensity with which every shot was played, every lunge, drop shot, and smash executed with precision under immense physical pressure.
This rally emphasised how badminton at the elite level is no longer just a reaction-based sport but one of endurance, consistency, and strategic depth.
Longest Matches in Badminton History
While rallies excite, it’s often the full matches that test a player’s physical boundary. Some matches have stretched over hours, leaving spectators in awe and players completely exhausted.
- Kevin Cordón vs Pablo Abián - 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games: This match lasted over 1 hour and 50 minutes, ending with a scoreline of 23-25, 27-25, 30-29. Every set went deep into overtime, showcasing incredible resilience.
- Victor Axelsen vs Kenta Nishimoto - 2021 Denmark Open: Known for Axelsen’s controlled aggression, this three-game thriller lasted 1 hour and 32 minutes, proving that even dominant players have to grind out victories.
- Hans-Kristian Vittinghus vs Jan Ø. Jørgensen - 2014 World Championships: A classic Danish duel lasting 1 hour and 42 minutes and known for multiple 30+ shot rallies in a single game.
What Makes Long Rallies Possible?
Several factors contribute to the length of rallies and matches:
- Improved Fitness Levels: Today’s players train with Olympic-grade intensity. From VO2 max tests to plyometrics, their stamina is on par with endurance athletes.
- String Technology: Racket string tension and shuttle control allow for longer control-based exchanges rather than quick finishes.
- Defensive Mastery: Modern players like Akane Yamaguchi, Carolina Marin, and Lee Zii Jia have brought defensive brilliance to the forefront.
- Scoring System Influence: The rally-point system (to 21) encourages longer play, especially in evenly matched games.
How Long Can a Rally Actually Go?
While there is no upper limit, rallies that cross 200 shots are rare due to physical fatigue, increased error probability, and the mental toll it takes. On average, a top-level rally in men’s singles lasts between 10-30 shots, while in women’s singles, it can extend to 40 or more due to defensive styles.
Long rallies can shift the momentum of a match. They often exhaust one player more than the other and mentally affect strategy moving forward. Coaches frequently use these turning points to advise strategic change, such as increasing aggression or shortening rallies in the next set.
Badminton is a sport of reflexes, yes, but also of resilience. The longest rallies and matches are not just testaments to endurance but also to the evolving complexity of the game. As fitness standards rise and strategies become more layered, fans can expect even more historic moments that defy physical limits. Whether it’s a 256-shot exchange or a 2-hour clash, these instances become immortal in the sport's rich history.
Also Read: Top 5 Fastest Smashes in Badminton of All Time
About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I'm Akanksha Sinha, an expert in writing sports blogs, news, and various articles for entertainment and more. I bring a unique flair to my work, providing insightful perspectives on the world of sports.
My articles aim to inform and entertain, making me a go-to source for sports enthusiasts seeking a blend of information and enjoyment. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I consistently deliver compelling narratives that resonate with a diverse audience.
