Who invented badminton?

Badminton was not invented by one specific person. The sport has its roots in ancient games, such as battledore and shuttlecock. The modern sport developed in India, where it was known as "poon." British soldiers stationed there brought it back to England in the mid-19th century.

Badminton is named for Badminton House, Gloucestershire, which was owned by the Duke of Beaufort. It is not clear why the name "badminton" came to be attached to the sport, even though people living in Badminton House did play the game. The International Badminton Federation formed in 1934. The game became an Olympic sport in 1992.