Top five fastest smashes in women's badminton history

Pearly Tan holds the record for the fastest smash in women’s badminton.

At this stage, women’s badminton seems to have come a long way in its evolution, where power play has improved so significantly that smash speeds now match those of men’s competition. The Malaysian sensation, Tan Pearly, smashed records in April 2023 by being clocked at 438 km/h, indicating the growing athlete prowess in women’s badminton.

A landmark moment for women’s badminton progression is the 2016 season, which put four of the five fastest-recorded smashes on the charts, notably at the All England and Malaysia Open tournaments.

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These records shine with unadulterated power and technical excellence, as with common racket gear and a well-honed style of play these superstars of racket sport achieved on the court. The cream of speed queens includes Olympic medalists, World Champions, and former World No. 1s, and this shows just how important power-hitting has come to be in today’s women’s badminton.

Here’s a look at the top five shuttlers who have recorded the fastest smashes in women’s badminton history.

5. Saina Nehwal (India) – 357 km/h

India’s first badminton superstar Saina Nehwal registered her fastest hit at the 2016 All England. The pioneering Olympic medalist combined perfect technique with explosive power. Her Nanoray 900 racket provided the technical edge for this achievement.

4. Wang Yihan (China) – 359 km/h

The former World Champion achieved her fastest smashed shot in her last season in the 2016 Malaysia Open to the infamous dead match. Wang’s heavy smash, though lost, showed the Chinese compatriots’ technicality. Wang’s height helped her smash inside the court.

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3. Tai Tzu Ying (Chinese Taipei) – 360 km/h

The longest-reigning World No. 1 Tai Tzu Ying displayed her strong side at the 2016 All England quarter-finals. Tai was known more for her deception than strength, but the smash against Saina Nehwal expressed her full capabilities. This speed showed off her superb technical ability.

2. Ratchanok Intanon (Thailand) – 372 km/h

Thai dynamo delivered her historic smash in the semi-final of the 2016 Malaysia Open against Wang Yihan, where she secured her first-ever victory against her 12-loss streak. Intanon, then aged 21, combined impeccable timing with exceptional wrist speed to achieve such force.

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1. Pearly Tan (Malaysia) – 438 km/h

The Malaysian powerhouse showcased unprecedented strength at Yonex Factory testing in 2023. Using cutting-edge equipment, her record-breaking smash redefined possibilities in women’s badminton. The controlled environment allowed perfect execution of power and technique.

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