Badminton votes to change scoring system from 2027

The Badminton World Federation believes the change can help the sport to continue growing Badminton's world governing body has voted to change the sport's scoring system, calling it "an important milestone for the future of badminton". Matches currently follow a best-of-three games format with the winner of each game being the first to 21 points. From 4 January 2027 each game will be reduced to the first to 15 points.

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) says the reduced game time will create tighter games with more excitement as well as reducing player fatigue and the chance of injury. The 3x15 scoring system was voted through at the BWF's annual general meeting in Denmark. "We are building a sport that speaks to the next generation, while continuing to invest in the long term future of our players," BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul said.

"The three by 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. " The decision came after a period of testing, analysis, and consultation, with five different scoring systems looked at. While some stakeholders did express reservations, Leeswadtrakul said: "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. "