KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 6: With an aim to attract new audience to the sport and make the matches shorter, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) is set to trial a new 3×15 scoring system in selected competitions for at least six months, starting April this year.
The existing format offers 21-point best-of-three-game matches (3×21).
The BWF Council, the decision-making body of the world governing body, endorsed the 3×15 scoring system, which is already part of the Alternative Laws of Badminton, to replace the current scoring system during its meeting in Kuala Lumpur in November.
“As part of its due diligence, BWF Council approved a plan to practically test the 3 x 15 (setting to 21) system at selected Continental Championships, Grade 3 tournaments, national and international leagues, and national tournaments from approximately April to September/October 2025,” BWF said.
International Challenge, International Series and Future Series competitions fall under Grade 3 tournaments.
Explaining the reasons behind selecting the new scoring system, BWF said:
“Compared to the current system, 3×15 has fewer points per game, which increases the probability that each point will be more exciting.”
“Compared to the current system, 3×15 reaches the end points in games faster and strikes the best balance of excitement, both in each game and in the overall number of games.”
The BWF also stated that the 3×15 system will lead to shorter matches, better scheduling, maintain fan interest, and benefit player health and longevity.
The BWF said it will survey key stakeholders at each tournament as well as an overall survey of all Members, Athletes’ Commissions (players), technical officials, and commercial partners near the end of the testing period. (PTI)
