Badminton’s next chapter: the move to 15 points
A new scoring format arrives in January 2027. Here is the change fans need to know.
What has been approved?
BWF members approved a best-of-three, 15-point scoring system at the federation’s annual general meeting in April 2026. The international change is scheduled to take effect on 4 January 2027, replacing the established best-of-three, 21-point format.
When will you see it?
The distinction between approval and implementation matters. The new system is a forthcoming change, not a reason to assume that every match today is already using 15-point games. Local competitions may have their own implementation arrangements, so check the event’s published rules.
The question for fans
Our perspective: a shorter game changes how a lead feels to a spectator. Watch how players approach the opening rallies and respond to an early deficit. Whether the new format changes the balance of particular matchups is something to assess through competition, rather than assume in advance.