The Badminton World Federation (BWF) approved one of the biggest rule changes in the sport’s history on Saturday, officially adopting the new 3×15 scoring system at its annual general meeting in Horsens, Denmark. The proposal passed the necessary two-thirds majority of the votes cast and will enter into force on January 4, 2027.
The move marks the end of the long-standing 3×21 point format that has defined modern badminton for nearly two decades. Under the new system, matches will be played as best-of-three games to 15 points instead of 21, with the BWF saying the shorter format will improve the schedule, create more high-pressure moments and help the players.
BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul called the decision an important milestone for the future of badminton and said the sport must evolve for the next generation.
“We are building a sport that speaks to the next generation while continuing to invest in the long-term future of our players,” said Leeswadtrakul.
The 3×15 scoring system is intended to provide more exciting and competitive badminton, better scheduling, more consistent match duration and potential benefits for player well-being and recovery.
She added that introducing high-pressure moments earlier in matches would create tighter matches and more dramatic finishes, which would help keep fans’ attention from the first rally to the last.
The decision follows years of testing, analysis and consultation with stakeholders, with the BWF saying the change reflects a collective push for innovation, sustainability and longer playing careers.
SAINA NEHWAL QUOTES CONCERNS
However, this move was not without criticism. Former world number one and Indian badminton star Saina Nehwal opposed the change, warning that the sport should not lose its essence in the quest for reform.
“If the changes are introduced, they should ensure that the quality of rallying and the competitive balance of the sport are not affected. At the end of the day, the focus should be on fair competition and the spirit of the game,” Saina said earlier.
Responding to these concerns, Leeswadtrakul stressed that badminton’s core identity would remain intact.
“We know that change can cause concern, especially in a sport with such strong traditions. But this decision does not change the fundamental nature of badminton. The skills, tactics, physical and mental demands and drama of the sport will remain,” she said.
“This change will strengthen the sport by protecting what makes badminton special and ensuring the world’s best players can compete for longer, inspire and connect with fans around the world.”
The BWF said it will now focus on making the transition smooth, while continuing discussions with players, coaches and national federations as badminton prepares for a major shift in how the sport will be played from 2027.
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Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
25 Apr 2026 23:50 IST
