In a bold stand against radical changes, ex-Indian badminton coach Vimal Kumar has condemned the BWF’s new 3×15 scoring format, predicting it will erode the sport’s competitive edge. The decision, passed overwhelmingly at the federation’s annual meeting, has sparked debate over badminton’s future direction.
Kumar didn’t mince words: the shift from the proven 3×21 system to shorter 15-point games per set ignores the unique demands of singles play. ‘This move disappoints me greatly, especially with council members’ enthusiastic support,’ he said. ‘Our current setup levels the playing field for diverse styles in key singles events, celebrating skill, flexibility, fitness, and mental resilience—hallmarks of badminton.’
He questioned the rationale behind shortening rallies and match duration. ‘Proponents say it adds early buzz, but that’s narrow thinking. Badminton thrums with constant excitement unmatched by few sports. Why tinker with singles when doubles could test innovations without compromising the main draw?’
Kumar expanded his concerns to systemic flaws: paltry world championship prizes, stingy singles payouts, and no reliable challenge system for calls. On X, he painted a vivid picture: ‘Badminton ranks among the toughest sports globally. A 90-minute singles clash can pack an hour of shuttle time—rivaling marathon efforts. Yet, we’re undermining these traits instead of amplifying them.’
Players, he noted, must simply adjust, their input sidelined. ‘Global peers advance via athlete empowerment and fan-focused upgrades; badminton regresses. In passion-soaked Asia, this feels like betrayal—not progress, but erosion.’
Saturday’s vote in Denmark’s Hørsholm sealed the deal: 198-43 in favor, surpassing the two-thirds threshold after extensive trials. From January 2027, best-of-three to 15 points becomes standard, with 21-point deciders for 1-1 ties. BWF touts it as modernizing for snappier, spectator-friendly action and reduced player strain. But voices like Kumar’s warn of lasting damage to the sport’s soul.
