Major change in badminton! BWF approves new 3x15 scoring system - when will it be implemented?

Badminton (X Photo)

HYDERABAD: Badminton is set for a new avatar as the annual general body of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) has approved the 3x15 point scoring system from Jan next. The proposal received more than two-thirds majority at the BWF AGM in Horsens, Denmark on Saturday. While 198 voted in favour of the new format, 43 voted against. PV Sindhu said change should be meaningful. “We should always look to improve sport for players, fans, broadcasters and commercial partners. But not every change is progress. So, my feeling would be like, let us innovate, but let us make sure we are solving the right problem,” Sindhu told the BWF website. Doubles specialist Satwisairaj Rankireddy told TOI that 15-point system will suit their style. “For our playing style, the 15-point system will be advantageous. But I like the 21-point game. We play real badminton there. It is just like comparing Test and T20 cricket. Test cricket is what we love and enjoy more,” Satwik said. BWF started experimenting with the 3x15 format from May 2025 at the Mexican international challenge. BWF have also tested the existing 21x3 against 15x3 and 11x5. The factors as-sessed include winning probability, match duration, game closeness, number of highpressure or exciting points. All data indicated that the 3x15 format consistently outperformed the other two formats. The 3x21 system was introduced in 2006. Between 2002 and 2006, the 5x7 system was implemented and scrapped due to extended match duration. Before 2002, it was best of three games of 15 points each for men and 11 points each for women. At the 2004 Olympics 15x3 was used. Before 2006 there was the service-over system, where players secured points only while serving. In the newly-approved system, players get points for every rally they win. Former world No.1 Saina Nehwal has strongly opposed the new system. Women’s Olympic champion Chen Yu Fei supports the 15-point format. “I support the threegame, 15-point scoring system. With the 21-point system, matches can last 80 or even 90 minutes, which is demanding. If it’s 15 points, the matches will be shorter, intensity higher and rallies more exciting,” the Chinese shuttler said. Former National coach U Vimal Kumar is also against the new system. “Altering the existing scoring system risks diluting the core essence of badminton,” Vimal wrote to the BWF.

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