HYDERABAD: Badminton is all set for a new avatar as the annual general body of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) has approved a 3×15 point scoring system from next January.The proposal won a more than two-thirds majority at the BWF’s AGM in Horsen, Denmark, on Saturday. 198 voted in favor of the new format while 43 voted against.PV Sindhu said that change should be meaningful. “We should always try to improve the game for players, fans, broadcasters and commercial partners. But not every change is progress. So, my feeling would be, let us innovate, but we should make sure we are solving the right problem,” Sindhu told the BWF website.Doubles expert Satvi Sairaj Rankireddy told TOI that the 15-point system would suit his style. “For our style of play, a 15-point system would be beneficial. But I like the 21-point game. We play real badminton there. It’s just like comparing Test and T20 cricket. Test cricket is what we love and enjoy more,” said Stouk.The BWF began experimenting with the 3×15 format from May 2025 at the Mexican International Challenge. BWF has also tested the current 21×3 against 15×3 and 11×5. Factors evaluated include the probability of winning, the duration of the match, the closeness of the game, the number of high pressures or points of interest. All data shows that the 3×15 format consistently outperformed the other two formats.The 3×21 system was introduced in 2006. Between 2002 and 2006, the 5×7 system was implemented and phased out due to the extension of match duration. Prior to 2002, it was a three-game best of 15 points for men and 11 points for women. 15×3 was used in the 2004 Olympics. Before 2006, there was a serve-over system, where players scored points only by serving. In the newly approved system, players get points for every rally won.Former world number one Saina Nehwal has strongly opposed the new system. Women’s Olympic champion Chen Yu supports the 15-point format. “I support a three-game, 15-point scoring system. With a 21-point system, matches can last 80 or 90 minutes, as needed. If it’s 15 points, the matches will be shorter, more intense and rallies more exciting,” said the Chinese shuttler.Former national coach U Vimal Kumar is also against the new system. “Changing the current scoring system risks undermining the fundamental essence of badminton,” Wemmel wrote to the BWF.
