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Badminton Scoring System to Change to First-to-15 from 2027

The Badminton World Federation has approved a new scoring system starting January 4, 2027, changing from best-of-three, first-to-21 to best-of-three, first-to-15 games. The decision was voted on during the BWF Annual General Meeting in Horsens, Denmark, where the Thomas & Uber Cup Finals are being held. BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul stated the change aims to protect the sport's fundamentals while making matches shorter and more predictable. The new system outperformed both the current 3x21 and alternative 5x11 systems during data review.

Key Points: Badminton Scoring System Change to First-to-15 from 2027

  • New badminton scoring system from January 2027
  • Best-of-three, first-to-15 games replaces current first-to-21
  • Aimed at shorter, more predictable matches
  • Approved at BWF Annual General Meeting in Horsens
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Badminton scoring system set to change from January 2027 onwards

Badminton's scoring system will change to best-of-three, first-to-15 games from January 2027, aiming for shorter, more predictable matches.

"This decision does not change the fundamental nature of badminton. The skill, the tactics, the physical and mental demands, and the drama of the sport will remain. - Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul"

Horsens, April 25

The scoring system in badminton is set to undergo a massive change from next year onwards, as the current best-of-three, first-to-21 system will be replaced by the best-of-three, first-to-15 system.

From January 4 next year, as per Olympics.com, the badminton matches will be played as best-of-three matches, with 15 matches per game at stake. The change was voted on during the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Annual General Meeting in Horsens, Denmark, currently the host to the BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026.

As per BWF, the new system "offers a strong and sustainable foundation for the sport's future."

It outperformed both the 3x21 system and the alternative option of the 5x11 system during the data review.

It is also hoped that through this scoring system, there will be shorter matches with more predictable lengths, which will help players in getting more recovery time and organisers and broadcasters with scheduling of matches.

"We are building a sport that speaks to the next generation, while continuing to invest in the long-term future of our players," said BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul in a press release as quoted by Olympics.com.

On the possible concerns that could be raised by players, fans and some national badminton federations worldwide, the BWF president said, "This decision does not change the fundamental nature of badminton. The skill, the tactics, the physical and mental demands, and the drama of the sport will remain."

"What this change does is strengthen the sport by protecting what makes badminton special, and ensuring the world's best players can continue to compete, inspire, and connect with fans globally for longer," she signed off.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Rakshit T
I'm skeptical. The 5x11 system was a disaster in practice, and now we go to 3x15? It feels like BWF is tinkering just for the sake of it. Our Indian players like Satwiksairaj Rankireddy are known for endurance, and shorter games might actually benefit taller players with power. Let's see how it pans out in actual tournaments before celebrating.
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Priya S
As someone who coaches badminton at the grassroots in Bangalore, this change is welcome! Young players often struggle to maintain focus for long 21-point games. Shorter matches mean better time management in tournaments. Plus, for broadcasters like Star Sports, predictable lengths are a boon. Hope this boosts viewership! 🙌
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Neha V
The BWF president says the "drama of the sport will remain" – I disagree! Part of badminton's charm is the epic comebacks from 18-20 down. First to 15 will reduce those nail-biting finishes. Remember Saina Nehwal's famous comebacks? Those will be harder now. But yes, shorter tournaments will help players like Kidambi Srikanth avoid burnout. Mixed feelings overall.
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Vikram M
Great move! The 21-point system was designed for rally scoring but led to too many deuces and unpredictable timings. Our Indian shuttlers have shown they can adapt quickly – just look at how Satwik-Chirag mastered the current system. More predictable scheduling means more fans can watch live at stadiums. Let's be optimistic 🇮🇳
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Ravi K
This is long overdue! I've seen too many epic

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