Badminton to Implement New Scoring System Starting January 2024

In a significant update for badminton, the sport will transition to a new scoring system beginning January 4, 2024. The current best-of-three, first-to-21 format will be replaced with a best-of-three, first-to-15 system. This change, approved during the BWF Annual General Meeting in Horsens, Denmark, aims to create shorter matches, allowing players more recovery time and improving scheduling for organizers and broadcasters. BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul reassured that the essence of badminton will remain unchanged, focusing on skill and excitement while adapting to modern demands. Discover more about this pivotal shift in the sport.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 26, 2026, 02:17 IST

Significant Changes in Badminton Scoring

Horsens [Denmark], April 25: A major transformation in badminton's scoring format is on the horizon, set to take effect from January 4, 2024. The existing best-of-three, first-to-21 scoring system will be replaced by a new format where matches will be played as best-of-three, with each game played to 15 points.

This decision was made during the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Annual General Meeting held in Horsens, Denmark, which is currently hosting the BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026, as reported by Olympics.com.

The BWF believes that this new scoring method provides a robust and sustainable framework for the sport's future.

Data analysis indicated that the new 3x15 system was more favorable compared to both the previous 3x21 format and an alternative 5x11 option.

One of the anticipated benefits of this scoring change is the potential for shorter matches, allowing players more recovery time and aiding organizers and broadcasters in match scheduling.

BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul emphasized in a press release, “We are developing a sport that resonates with the next generation while ensuring a long-term investment in our athletes' futures.”

Addressing potential concerns from players, fans, and national badminton federations, the BWF president reassured that this change will not alter the core essence of badminton. She stated, “The skill, tactics, physical and mental challenges, and the excitement of the sport will remain intact.”

She concluded by saying, “This adjustment will fortify the sport by preserving what makes badminton unique, ensuring that the world's top players can continue to compete, inspire, and engage with fans globally for an extended period.”