THE FORMAT
THREE GAMES.
FIRST TO 15.
BWF members approved the new 3×15 scoring system at the 2026 Annual General Meeting. It comes into effect internationally on Monday, 4 January 2027, replacing 3×21 as the standard format.
best of three
each game
at 20-all, next point wins
Rally-point scoring stays: a point is awarded after every rally, whoever served. At 14-all, a player or pair must lead by two points to win, up to the 21-point cap. At 20-all, the next point decides the game.
WHAT ELSE CHANGES?
THE DETAILS
AROUND THE GAME.
BWF also adopted related changes to intervals, change of ends and continuous play. Tournament players should consult the amended Laws of Badminton and the regulations for their specific event.
What this means at club: shorter games make every rally count. Build a clear plan early, value the serve and return, and keep your focus when the score gets tight. The scoring change does not itself replace the service rules.
The 3×15 format is the standard system from 4 January 2027; 3×21 remains as an alternate option under the adopted rules. Check event regulations for which format is in use.
Read BWF’s key changes summaryLEVEL UP TOGETHER