Badminton World Federation (BWF) has announced a major development in the sport’s scoring system as several Member Associations from all five continental confederations have agreed to trial the 3×15 scoring system in Grade 3 and national tournaments throughout the 2025 season.
This experimental scoring format—outlined in the Alternative Laws of Badminton (Section 4.1.4)—marks a significant shift from the traditional 3×21 rally-point system. Under the 3×15 format, matches are played best of three games, with each game won by the first side to 15 points, maintaining a two-point difference. In scenarios where the score hits 20-all, the first to 21 points clinches the game.
Tournaments Testing the 3×15 System
The following Grade 3 international tournaments have been selected as test events for the 3×15 format:
- V Mexican International Challenge (7–11 May 2025)
- Venezuela Future Series (10–14 June 2025)
- Czech International Future Series (19–22 June 2025)
- DOVE Saipan International (12–16 August 2025)
- PETRONAS Malaysia International Challenge (12–17 August 2025)
- Peru International Series (17–21 September 2025)
- Kampala International (25–28 September 2025)
- ROKETTO Sydney International (8–12 October 2025)
- LI-NING Vietnam International Series (21–26 October 2025)
- China International Challenge (28 October – 2 November 2025)
In addition, selected national-level events will also pilot the system, with participating Member Associations directly reporting their insights to their respective memberships.
All host organisers will collect comprehensive match data, while a wide range of stakeholders—including players, coaches, team managers, technical officials, volunteers, and national leaders—will be required to complete online surveys assessing the effectiveness and experience of the 3×15 system.
This structured feedback process will inform the BWF Council’s final evaluation, with a decision to be made on whether to propose the new scoring system at the BWF Annual General Meeting in 2026.
The 3×15 system aims to bring shorter, more intense games to the international circuit, enhancing spectator engagement and adding strategic pressure on athletes in each rally. It also reduces the duration of matches, which may benefit player welfare and broadcasting flexibility.
An important tactical shift also arises during the deciding third game, as a change of ends occurs when one side scores 8 points, potentially adding an additional layer of suspense.
Credit Photo : BAT
