The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has endorsed a new 3×15 scoring system to potentially replace the current 3×21 format. Under this system, matches will still be best-of-three games, but each game will be won by the first side to reach 15 points. At 14-14, play continues until one side secures a two-point lead, with a maximum cap at 21 points. This new format will be tested in select tournaments from April to October 2025 before a final decision is made in 2026.
The BWF aims to make matches shorter, more exciting, and less physically taxing for players, potentially extending their careers. The federation believes a faster-scoring system will enhance fan engagement, improve tournament scheduling, and maintain high-intensity gameplay. While badminton was historically played to 15 points, this new version differs as every rally will count for a point, unlike the old system where only the serving side could score.
This isn’t the first time BWF has experimented with scoring changes. In 2002, a brief 7×5 format was tested but ultimately abandoned. More recently, in 2021, there was a proposal for an 11×5 system, which received 66.31% of votes but fell just short of the two-thirds majority required for approval.
The current 3×21 system has been in place since 2006, introducing the rally point system where each rally contributes to the score. With the upcoming trial period, the badminton community will closely watch whether the 3×15 system proves to be the right evolution for the sport.
