Kuala Lumpur: The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has announced plans to trial a 3×15 rally scoring system with a 21-point cap in selected tournaments from April to September/October 2025.
The proposed scoring format, which could replace the current best-of-three, 21-point system, will be tested in Continental Championships, BWF Grade 3 tournaments (International Challenge, International Series, and Future Series), national and international leagues, and national championships before a final decision is made at the 2026 BWF Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Why is BWF Testing a New Scoring System?
During the BWF Council Meeting on November 9, 2024, the council endorsed the 3×15 (setting to 21) system as the preferred alternative, based on an extensive analysis of real match data from major badminton championships and World Tour events over the years.
BWF previously considered multiple scoring systems, including:
The current 3×21 format
2×21 format with an 11-point decider
5×11 format
However, after evaluating these options, BWF concluded that the 3×15 system provides the best balance of competitiveness, match intensity, and player sustainability.
Key Features of the 3×15 Scoring System:
- Best of three games, each played to 15 points
- Mid-game interval at 8 points
- If the score reaches 14-14, a player must win by 2 points
- Maximum cap of 21 points per game
- More intense and exciting points
- Fewer points per game increase the likelihood of closely contested rallies
- Faster-paced matches
- Matches reach decisive moments quicker, improving fan engagement
- Better scheduling and player longevity
- Shorter matches reduce physical strain, ensuring player health and career longevity
- More predictable match durations allow better event planning
Next Steps: Practical Testing and Stakeholder Surveys
To ensure a thorough evaluation, BWF will conduct surveys after each match, collecting feedback from players, coaches, officials, and commercial partners.
BWF has invited national federations, international tournament organizers, and national championships to participate in the trials, with responses required by February 28, 2025.
Following the testing phase and stakeholder feedback, the BWF Council will determine whether to formally propose the 3×15 system at the 2026 BWF AGM.
What’s Next for Badminton?
The potential shift in the scoring system could bring faster, more engaging matches while maintaining competitiveness and fairness. With trials set for later this year, badminton fans and players will be watching closely to see how this change impacts the game.
Stay tuned for more updates on badminton’s evolving landscape.
