A Revolutionary Change in Badminton History, Now the Game Will Be Played to 15 Points Instead of 21
In a historic decision, the Badminton World Federation has officially approved a new scoring system. During the annual general meeting held in Horsens, Denmark, it was decided by a two-thirds majority that international badminton matches will now be played based on three games of 15 points instead of 21.
This new rule will come into effect worldwide on January 4, 2027. With this decision, the nearly two-decade-long '3×21' format, which replaced the old scoring system in 2006, will come to an end. BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul described this historic decision as a milestone for the future of badminton.
She argued that the shorter 15-point format will not only make matches more exciting and intense but will also make the duration of matches more predictable. The federation believes that the shorter format will reduce the physical burden on players, leading to better recovery and longer careers. The aim of this change is to connect the new generation of audiences to the sport and make it more dynamic in terms of broadcasting.
Although the number of points has been reduced, the BWF clarified that the core nature, skills, and strategies of the game will remain unchanged. Under the new rules, a two-point lead will be required in case of a tie at 14-14, while the maximum point limit is set at 21 (meaning that in a 20-20 tie, the player winning the 21st point will win the game). However, some senior players like Saina Nehwal have expressed concerns about the traditional character of the game, but the federation has assured that this innovation will further strengthen badminton's reputation in global competition.
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