Badminton Scoring Change: Faster Games Planned

A proposal by the World Badminton Federation could see the nature of the sport shift dramatically, with each best-of-three game to be won by 15 points rather than the current 21.

The potential change, according to some officials, is aimed at making matches faster while alleviating some physical burden on the players.

But there are concerns over the possible transformation of the sport, however, with some believing it will tip the balance in favour of those players who attack from the start.

Thomas Lund, the BWF secretary general, dismissed that and said it was about creating an environment to let the game’s top stars have longer careers.

“The 15-point system was designed to align with modern competition trends, aiming to enhance the excitement of the game, increase the importance of each point, and ensure that the match enters a crucial confrontation from the very beginning,” he said.

Japan’s Arisa Igarashi (right) and Chiharu Shida compete in the Yonex French Open. Photo: Getty Images

Women’s world No 1 An Se-young, who won the World Tour Finals last month, said she believed the change could be for the better.

James Whitfield

James Whitfield is Archysport's racket sports and golf specialist, bringing a global perspective to tennis, badminton, and golf coverage. Based between London and Singapore, James has covered Grand Slam tournaments, BWF World Tour events, and major golf championships on five continents. His reporting combines on-the-ground access with deep knowledge of the technical and strategic elements that separate elite athletes from the rest of the field. James is fluent in English, French, and Mandarin, giving him unique access to athletes across the global tennis and badminton circuits.

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