Athletes are at the center of sport. The on-court performances of our world class players are an inspiration to those who play badminton and for those who follow badminton.

Players are central to the development and promotion of badminton. They are the main ‘actors’ on the ‘field of play’ around which events revolve. Their performance in competitions on court, their off court training and preparation for competition and their interaction with media and the connection to the badminton fan base will shape their professional playing career.

Player Careers

Top players start their playing careers early and very often, their playing career at the top of the sport is relatively short. Players need to build skills and knowledge not only for their playing careers but also to prepare them for a life after their badminton careers. Player career
programmes are therefore important to prepare players for their future.

The BWF endorses and promotes a 360 degree approach to player development and participation in badminton and to prepare players for a future beyond their playing career. The BWF Player Career and Entourage Policy describes some of the elements of this approach.

Player Entourage

The BWF also sees the importance of those who can influence players the most – the players’ entourage.

The relationship and interaction between players, coaches, managers, sponsors and all other stakeholders that support players is
critical. Entourage members play an important role in enhancing player development. Entourage members are central to a players performance but are also important in providing opportunities for non-badminton training and education. Players also need to know how to get value from these relations and support personnel.

Athletes’ Commission

The BWF Athletes’ Commission was established in 2008, and is made up of six members.

The purpose of the Athletes’ Commission is to represent the views of athletes to the BWF Council and Committees. The Chair of the Athletes’ Commission is a voting member of the Council and has the responsibility to advise the Council and Committees on matters relevant to athletes.