BWF to Test 3×15 Scoring System in Ten Grade 3 Tournaments Starting May 2025

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has announced that it will test the 3×15 scoring system in ten Grade 3 tournaments, with the trial period running from May to November 2025. Among the selected hosts are China and Malaysia.

This decision comes after gaining approval from representatives across five continents, signaling a unified step toward evaluating alternative formats for future competitions.

Although not entirely new, the 3×15 format was previously used before the adoption of the now-standard 3×21 system. It aims to create faster, more dynamic matches without compromising competitiveness.

Key differences between the 3×15 and 3×21 systems include:

• Shorter interval breaks, typically at 8 points (vs. 11 in 3×21)
• Lower game point target at 15 (vs. 21)
• Maximum score during deuce is 21 points (unlike 30 in the current system)

BWF will collect feedback from players, coaches, and fans before making a decision on whether this system could be rolled out more broadly in the future.