Have you ever wondered how long a badminton match can actually last?
Most people think of badminton as a fast-paced game—a blur of smashes, lunges, and lightning-quick reactions. While that’s often true, there are rare moments when matches stretch beyond all expectations and become epic battles of endurance.
In this article, we’ll explore the Top 5 Longest Badminton Matches in History((Epic, Record-Breaking Games)—bouts where stamina, skill, and sheer willpower were pushed to the absolute limit. From championship thrillers to record-setting marathons, these are the clashes that redefined what it means to fight for victory.
5. Nozomi Okuhara vs P.V. Sindhu – 2017 World Championships Final
Duration: 110 minutes
Outcome: Okuhara def. Sindhu – 21–19, 20–22, 22–20
This match became one of the most iconic in women’s badminton. Lasting 110 minutes, both Okuhara and Sindhu delivered an unbelievable performance filled with 50+ shot rallies, pinpoint net play, and incredible defence.
By the end, both players collapsed on the court, completely exhausted. Okuhara won the title, but badminton fans around the world were the true winners.
4. Kodai Naraoka vs Anders Antonsen – 2023 China Masters R16
Duration: 110 minutes
Outcome: Naraoka def. Antonsen – 21–19, 12–21, 21–19
This Round of 16 clash turned into a modern classic. Naraoka, trailing 16–19 in the final game, pulled off a stunning comeback by winning five consecutive points.
The match showcased top-tier reflexes, brilliant court coverage, and mental toughness from both players.
3. Nozomi Okuhara vs Wang Shixian – 2015 Malaysia Open Quarterfinal
Duration: 111 minutes
Outcome: Wang def. Okuhara – 21–19, 15–21, 22–20
Another marathon featuring Okuhara, this quarterfinal was a battle of tactics and stamina. Each player pushed the other to the limit, with rallies regularly exceeding 40 shots.
In the final game, Wang Shixian edged out Okuhara in dramatic style, winning 22–20 in a nail-biting finish.
2.Naoko Fukuman / Kurumi Yonao vs Greysia Polii / Nitya Maheswari – 2016 Badminton Asia Championships Semi-Final
Duration: 161 minutes (2 hours 41 minutes)
Outcome: Fukuman/Yonao def. Polii/Maheswari – 21–15, 20–22, 24–22
This is officially the longest badminton match ever recorded. The Japanese and Indonesian pairs went toe-to-toe in a showdown of sheer will and unbreakable focus.
After nearly three hours, Fukuman and Yonao won the deciding game 24–22. Both pairs were physically and emotionally drained, showing true sportsmanship and heart.
1. Peter Rasmussen vs Sun Jun – 1997 World Championships Final
Duration: 124 minutes
Outcome: Rasmussen def. Sun Jun – 16–17, 18–13, 15–10
During the 1997 World Championships Final, Peter Rasmussen of Denmark faced Sun Jun of China in a battle that would go down as one of the most legendary duels in men’s singles history. Lasting an incredible 124 minutes, this match became a true test of endurance, grit, and heart.
Sun Jun, despite playing much of the match injured, refused to back down. His resilience was on full display, even as Rasmussen’s explosive attacking style and mental toughness pushed the match to the brink. The first two games were a back-and-forth affair, with Sun Jun narrowly taking the first 17–16, and Rasmussen bouncing back to win the second 18–13.
The third game was a nail-biting conclusion, where every rally felt like a war, and each point an odyssey. In the end, Rasmussen’s relentless drive proved too much, and he triumphed 15–10, securing the World Championship title.
Read More:
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FAQs About Longest Badminton Matches
Q: What is the longest badminton match ever played?
A: The longest match lasted 161 minutes at the 2016 Asia Championships (Fukuman/Yonao vs Polii/Maheswari).
Q: How long does a typical professional match last?
A: Usually between 40–50 minutes, but legendary battles can go well over 100 minutes.
Conclusion
These record-breaking badminton matches show what the human body and spirit can truly endure. Whether it’s comeback victories or grueling rallies, these moments are etched into badminton history forever.
Which one do you remember most? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
