Source: Action Images / ANDREW BOYERS
[Saba Sports News] At a meeting on November 9, 2024, the BWF Council approved the “3×15 scoring system” as a preferred alternative to the current scoring system in the Badminton Rules. Currently, badminton matches mostly follow a best-of-three format with a 21-point system, but the BWF Council believes the “3×15 scoring system” aligns better with the development trends of badminton, reflected in several aspects: firstly, it allows for more intense scoring points and tighter matches, increasing the value of each point and the suspense of the game; secondly, it enables quicker entry into critical scoring phases, achieving a better balance between excitement in individual games and overall play; thirdly, it shortens match duration to optimize schedules, maintaining audience interest while ensuring athlete health. To comprehensively evaluate the “3×15 scoring system,” the BWF Council approved pilot testing of this system from April to September/October 2025 during certain continental championships, tier-three events, domestic and international leagues, and national competitions. During the test period, the BWF will conduct surveys with key stakeholders and will conduct a comprehensive survey of all members, athlete committees, technical officials, and commercial partners at the end of the testing phase. If the test results and stakeholder surveys are positive, the proposal may be submitted for voting at the BWF’s annual general meeting in April 2026.