NEW DELHI: Former India coach Vimal Kumar has strongly criticized the World Badminton Federation’s decision to introduce a new scoring system, saying it could harm the sport rather than improve it.The BWF recently approved the 3×15 format, replacing the long-standing 21-point system, with the change set to come into force from January 2027.
“This is not evolution, this is dilution”
Vimal did not hide his disappointment at the decision and the support he received. “Extremely disappointed by the BWF’s decision to change the scoring system…and even more disturbing is the overwhelming support it has received from Council members. It is disheartening to see a sport so passionately followed, especially in Asia, being reshaped for reasons that do not address its real challenges,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).He believes the current system offers fair competition across different playstyles and fully tests players. “The current (21-point) format has ensured a real level playing field for all styles of play, especially in the main events,” he added.Vimal also questioned the idea that shorter matches would make badminton more exciting. “Badminton has never lacked excitement – what it offers is sustained intensity,” he said, warning that shortening the length of a match could take away from what makes the sport special.
Concerns beyond the scoring system
According to Vimal, if changes were necessary, they could only be applied to doubles, singles would remain untouched. “If a change was necessary, why not apply it selectively to doubles formats… That’s not evolution. That’s dilution.”He also highlighted bigger issues that he felt deserved more attention. “Equally worrying is the continued neglect of player welfare and voice: No World Cup prize money… No implementation of a rating/recommendation system,” he said.Vimal further added, “Players are expected to adapt – but they are rarely heard,” stressing that badminton risks heading in the wrong direction if the athletes’ concerns continue to be ignored.
