[Saba Sports News] The biggest variable for the 2026 BWF World Championships is undoubtedly the rule reform: the adoption of a best-of-three 15-point system. In response, China’s top men’s singles shuttler Shi Yuqi has stepped up intensive training in recent practice sessions to adapt to the new 15-point format.
Shi Yuqi revealed that injuries did disrupt his winter training schedule, but he is now recovering actively, with his goal for this year being to claim the title at the World Championships in New Delhi. He noted that the best-of-three 15-point system presents both a challenge and an opportunity for him, requiring tactical adjustments and a quicker start to matches. To get used to the new rules, he has specifically increased the volume of “15-point simulation matches” in training, where his win rate has remained stable at over 80%. Given the higher weight of the early stages in the 15-point system, Shi has strengthened his pressure in the serve and receive phases. He has moved fake moves that were previously used in the middle game to the first three points, using varied net play to disrupt his opponents’ rhythm. Meanwhile, he has added specialized drills of “10 consecutive smashes to designated areas”, aiming to raise his smash conversion rate in the first eight points from 60% to 75%. He also conducts 20 sets of practical exercises simulating “comebacks from 14–13 game point” every day to sharpen his mental toughness at crucial moments.
In our view, Shi Yuqi’s intensive training is clearly targeted and solidly implemented, demonstrating a proactive attitude toward the rule changes. His training program closely follows the core demands of the 15-point system: speed, precision and stability, with notable focus on opening pressure and critical-point consistency. If he stays injury-free, he is expected to be highly competitive at major events including the 2026 BWF World Championships.