Controversy Erupts Over Badminton's New Scoring System
Vimal Kumar Critiques BWF's Scoring Changes
Vimal Kumar, a prominent badminton coach, has expressed strong disapproval of the Badminton World Federation's (BWF) recent decision to implement a 3x15 scoring system, replacing the traditional 21-point format. Kumar, who previously served as India's national chief coach, cautioned that this change could undermine the sport's fundamental identity rather than addressing its underlying issues. During the BWF’s Annual General Meeting held in Horsens, Denmark, on April 25, member associations voted to adopt the new scoring system, with a significant majority supporting the shift.
The new scoring format is set to be introduced on January 4, 2027. However, this decision has raised concerns among badminton enthusiasts, particularly those who believe that the sport's intensity and character are closely linked to the current scoring system. Kumar did not hold back in voicing his disappointment, stating, “I am extremely disappointed with the BWF's decision to change the scoring system, and it is even more troubling to see such overwhelming support from Council members. It is disheartening to witness a sport that is passionately followed, especially in Asia, being altered for reasons that do not tackle its real challenges.”
Concerns Over Dilution of the Sport
Kumar argues that the 21-point system has played a crucial role in ensuring fairness across various playing styles, particularly in singles matches, where endurance, strategy, and mental toughness are key factors in determining outcomes. He emphasized, “The existing 21-point format has provided a true level playing field, especially in premier events like Men’s and Women’s Singles, which embody the essence of our sport: skill, resilience, fitness, and mental strength.”
While the BWF promotes the shorter format as a means to enhance viewer engagement, Kumar remains skeptical, asserting that badminton has never struggled to attract attention due to a lack of excitement. “By effectively shortening the match duration and removing one game's worth of play—18 points—the BWF risks diluting what makes these events captivating. The rationale that this will create early excitement seems short-sighted. Badminton has always offered sustained intensity, a quality that few sports can match,” he remarked.
In his opinion, if changes were necessary, they could have been implemented more judiciously without compromising the integrity of singles competition, which is widely regarded as the ultimate test of the sport. “If change was essential, why not apply it selectively to doubles formats while preserving the integrity of Singles? That would have been a more balanced approach. This is not evolution; it is dilution.”
Kumar's concerns are echoed by other prominent Indian players, including PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal, who have also expressed their reservations about the new scoring system.
Addressing Player Welfare
Beyond the scoring system debate, Kumar highlighted broader issues that he believes require immediate attention from the governing body. He pointed out the lack of prize money at the World Championships and the delays in implementing a review or referral system for critical umpiring decisions as pressing matters affecting players. “Equally concerning is the ongoing neglect of player welfare and representation: No prize money for the World Championships; no significant increase in rewards for Singles, the flagship category; and no implementation of a review/referral system for crucial umpiring decisions. These are the areas that truly need focus. Badminton is considered one of the toughest sports globally, with a 90-minute Singles match often featuring nearly an hour of shuttle play—far exceeding many longer-duration sports. Yet, instead of reinforcing these unique aspects, decisions like this risk undermining them,” he added.
At the core of Kumar's criticism lies a broader concern regarding governance and athlete representation. He believes that players continue to have limited influence in significant decisions, even as other global sports evolve towards more inclusive and athlete-centric models. “Players are expected to adapt but are rarely heard. While other global sports are advancing by empowering athletes, improving officiating, and enhancing viewer engagement, badminton appears to be moving in the opposite direction.”
As the sport gears up for a significant transformation in 2027, the discussion surrounding its future direction has intensified, with voices like Kumar's underscoring the tension between innovation and preservation in modern badminton.