Badminton’s New 3×15 Scoring Format Set to Launch Next Year in New Delhi

New Delhi: Badminton is set for a significant change as the new 3×15 scoring format (three games to 15 points) gets implemented next year, marking a pivotal shift in how the sport is played at the international level.

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has officially approved the transition to the 3×15 scoring system, effective from January 2027. This decision follows extensive testing and evaluation, including trials conducted during the 2025 season, such as at the Mexican International Challenge, where the format was assessed for match duration, player recovery, and spectator engagement.

Under the new system, matches will consist of three games to 15 points each, replacing the current 21-point format that has been in place since 2006. Points will be awarded on every rally won, continuing the rally-point scoring system introduced in the mid-2000s. The BWF stated that the change aims to create shorter, more exciting matches while improving player recovery and broadening the sport’s appeal to modern audiences and broadcasters.

Reactions from Players and Coaches

The decision has elicited mixed reactions from within the badminton community. Indian doubles specialist Satwiksairaj Rankireddy acknowledged that the 15-point system may suit certain playing styles but expressed a personal preference for the traditional 21-point game. “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,” Rankireddy told the Times of India.

Former world No. 1 Saina Nehwal has publicly opposed the change, questioning whether it addresses the right challenges facing the sport. Meanwhile, Olympic champion Chen Yu Fei of China voiced her support, stating that she backs the three-game, 15-point format as a positive evolution for badminton.

Historical Context and Testing

The BWF’s move represents another chapter in the evolution of badminton’s scoring system. Prior to 2002, men played best-of-three games to 15 points, while women competed to 11 points. At the 2004 Olympics, the 15×3 format was used. Between 2002 and 2006, a 5×7 system was briefly tested but abandoned due to excessively long match durations. The 21-point system, introduced in 2006, remained unchanged for nearly two decades before the current revision.

In the lead-up to the approval, the BWF analyzed multiple alternative formats, including 15×3 and 11×5, assessing factors such as winning probability, game closeness, and the frequency of high-pressure points. Data from these trials indicated that the 3×15 format consistently outperformed other variations in delivering competitive and engaging matches.

The implementation of the 3×15 scoring system from January 2027 will affect all BWF-sanctioned international tournaments, including the Olympics, World Championships, and Super Series events. National federations are expected to align their domestic competitions with the new standard in the lead-up to the global rollout.