The 3×15 scoring system will come into effect on January 4, 2027 after the Badminton World Federation (BWF) on Saturday approved its adoption at their Annual General Meeting at Horsen, Denmark. The proposal achieved the required two‑thirds majority.
BWF president Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul said the decision marked an important milestone for the future of badminton.
“We are building a sport that speaks to the next generation, while continuing to invest in the long‑term future of our players,” Leeswadtrakul said.
“The 3×15 scoring system is intended to deliver more exciting and competitive badminton, improved scheduling, more consistent match durations, and potential benefits for player welfare and recovery.
“By bringing high‑pressure moments earlier and creating tighter scores and more dramatic finishes, the format aims to keep fans engaged from the first rally to the last.”
The decision follows a long‑term process of testing, analysis, and consultation with members and stakeholders, and reflects the collective judgment of the BWF membership, guided by a commitment to innovation, player welfare, and supporting players in achieving longer, more successful careers, the world body said in a statement.
Top Indian figures in badminton, including PV Sindhu, former chief coach Vimal Kumar and Saina Nehwal, have earlier raised concerns about the proposed change. They have shown a clear preference for continuing with the current 21-point scoring system.
However, addressing the concerns raised by few stakeholders, Leeswadtrakul emphasised that the essence of badminton would remain unchanged.
“We know that change can raise concern, especially in a sport with such strong traditions. But this decision does not change the fundamental nature of badminton. The skill, the tactics, the physical and mental demands, and the drama of the sport will remain.
“What this change does is strengthen the sport by protecting what makes badminton special, and ensuring the world’s best players can continue to compete, inspire and connect with fans globally for longer.” BWF said it will continue listening closely to members, stakeholders and players as the sport adapts to this change.
The outcome of the vote reflects the constructive dialogue held throughout the Annual General Meeting and the Members’ Forum this week, with members aligned around innovation, sustainability, and building a stronger future for badminton, the BWF said.
“Today’s decision confirms our shared commitment to the long‑term relevance and sustainability of badminton,” Leeswadtrakul said.
“It has been shaped by open discussion and a common purpose to strengthen the future of our sport.
“I would like to thank our Members and the many players, coaches, and experts whose insight and feedback helped guide this important decision.”
Sindhu, BWF Athletes’ Commission Chair, had earlier indicated that while players were open to innovation, the overall sentiment favoured the 21-point system.
“Well, innovation is absolutely needed. But it has to be meaningful. Having said that, I think we should always look at how to improve the sport for players, fans, broadcasters and commercial partners. But not every change is progress. So, my overall feeling would be like, let us innovate, but let us make sure we are solving the right problem,” Sindhu had said in a BWF statement on April 6 ahead of the BWF AGM.
“From my discussion with the players, the feedback has genuinely been mixed. But if I look at the overall sentiment across the athletes, as spoken to, the majority still feel that the 21-point system is better for badminton. So, I think some players do see positives in 15 points, three sets as well. Especially, in terms of shorter matches, but the broader feeling is that 21 points gives the sport more of its charm, rhythm and tactical depth.” Vimal had also made a strong appeal to the BWF to retain the current 21-point.
“BWF is thinking about reducing the scoring format and fiddling with the scores and such things for commercial reasons. That is not real badminton,” Vimal had told PTI.
Saina had also urged the BWF to exercise caution regarding proposed scoring changes, maintaining that the current system preserves the sport’s essential intensity and endurance.
“I hope they take note of this and preserve it, at least in big events, because badminton is a tough sport. They need to understand it,” Saina had earlier said.
“See, whether it is golf or motorsports or football, they go on for three hours, five hours, and they have never diluted it. Hockey has never diluted it. Basketball has not diluted it.
“Badminton has a rich tradition, and tournaments like the All England Open Badminton Championships and the BWF World Championships have always been special because of their intensity and endurance factor,” she also said.
Saina had said that if changes are introduced then quality of the sport is not compromised. “Any change in scoring or format should be carefully considered. The current 21-point system has worked well and players have adapted to it over many years.
“If changes are introduced, they should ensure that the quality of rallies and the competitive balance of the sport are not affected. At the end of the day, the focus should remain on fair competition and the spirit of the game.”
