HYDERABAD: Renowned Indian badminton coach U Vimal Kumar has strongly criticised the Badminton World Federation's (BWF) decision to change the scoring system, labelling it as "short-sighted" and a dilution of the sport without addressing its core challenges.
The BWF's Annual General Meeting approved the adoption of the 3x15 point system with more than a two-thirds majority on Saturday. The new format is scheduled to take effect from January 4, 2027.
"It seems the Badminton World Federation (BWF) is trying to make badminton easy as pickleball and padel. An interesting approach to promoting a sport has always stood for endurance, skill and mental toughness. Not sure if this is evolution...or dilution," Vimal said on Sunday.
However, chief coach Pullela Gopichand had earlier noted that the 15-point format is easier for players with injuries. He considers the move necessary as the sport has become excessively physical under the current 3x21 format.
While the present generation of shuttlers worldwide expressed mixed views on the change, most Indian players said they prefer the 21x3 system, even though the 15x3 format suits their style of play.
Olympian and four-time Commonwealth Games medallist Aparna Popat said, "You need to begin well in the new format. Comebacks will be difficult and the format will affect the risk-taking ability."
"There will be resistance for any change. They attempted to change last year too. Now that it is done, we have no option but to adapt to the new system. Initially, 15x3 may help attacking players. Pretty soon, everyone will adapt to it," added Aparna, who has played under the 21x3, 11x3 and 7x5 formats.
Two-time Asian Games bronze medallist and mentor of Chirag Shetty, Uday Pawar, expressed concern that the game may lose some of its charm under the new system.
