Badminton was introduced into Thailand some 80 years ago, presumably by the British. The game was played on outdoor courts, where accuracy of any kind was out of the question because of the wind. The game was popular among the higher middle class who could afford to pay for the expensive shuttlecocks and imported rackets. Singles and doubles games were hardly played at that time on account of the limitation of time and the small number of courts as compared with the number of players.

In the year 1950 the Badminton Association of Thailand was founded and was affiliated to the International Badminton Federation in 1951. Henceforth, concentration was made on the game of singles and doubles. Indoor courts were built where players could practise day and night. Shuttlecocks and rackets were made in Thailand and even exported. The game eventually became popular among people of all classes. Thailand has been competing internationally since 1951 and always takes part in the Thomas Cup competition. There has been considerable activity in several badminton clubs all over Thailand, which has enabled more members to indulge in their favourite sport.