Badminton’s Iconic Scoring System Set for Upheaval

BWF Proposes New 15-Point 3-Set System, Ahn Se-Young’s Reign Could Be Affected

The World Badminton Federation (BWF) has rattled the badminton world by proposing a significant overhaul of the sport’s scoring system. The governing body has suggested replacing the current 21-point 3-set system with a new 15-point 3-set format, a move that could potentially impact ‘Badminton Empress’ Ahn Se-young, the reigning world number one.

From 21 to 15: The Proposed Change

Badminton has used a 21-point scoring system since 2006. In 2017, an 11-point 5-set system was proposed, but it failed to gain sufficient support at the general meeting. Now, the BWF Board of Directors has agreed to propose a 15-point 3-set system, which will be put to a vote at the BWF annual general meeting in Horsens, Denmark on April 25.

“After extensive testing and consultation, we are confident that the 15-point three-set system provides a solid foundation for the future of badminton.”

– BWF President Patama Riswadtrakul

Potential Impact on Ahn Se-young

Some badminton enthusiasts have expressed concern that the new scoring system may hinder Ahn Se-young’s dominant performance. Her unique ‘endurance fight’ style, built on superior stamina and defense, could be affected by the reduction in game time.

Fans and even the Korea Badminton Association president, Kim Dong-moon, have voiced worries that the new system could limit the momentum of Korean badminton stars like Ahn Se-young.

Why the Change? BWF’s Perspective

The BWF has explained that the change is the result of a detailed evaluation process combining statistical analysis, match testing, and stakeholder consultation. The federation believes that the 15-point 3-set system provides the best balance between match excitement, fair competition, player welfare, and competition administration.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that badminton continues to grow, inspire and thrive at all levels.”

FAQs

• What is the current badminton scoring system? It’s a 21-point 3-set system.
• When was the last time the scoring system changed? In 2006, when the system was changed from 15 to 21 points per game.
• What is the proposed new scoring system? A 15-point 3-set system.

Pro Tip

Fans keen to understand how the new system might affect their favorite players can use our badminton match simulator to experiment with different scoring systems.

Call to Action

What’s your take on the proposed scoring system change? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s discuss!