'Not Evolution...Dilution': Former India Coach Lambasts BWF's New Scoring Format

Last Updated:April 26, 2026, 13:38 IST

Vimal Kumar slams BWFs shift from 21-point to 3x15 scoring as dilution, and stated that they seem to have ignored player welfare issues.

Former India chief coach Vimal Kumar has strongly criticised the Badminton World Federation (BWF) for its decision to overhaul badminton’s scoring format, calling it a “dilution" of the sport rather than meaningful progress.

At its Annual General Meeting in Horsens, Denmark, the BWF approved the switch to a 3×15 scoring system, replacing the long-standing 21-point format. The proposal secured the required two-thirds majority and will be implemented from January 4, 2027.

“Extremely disappointed with the BWF decision to alter the scoring system… and even more concerning is the overwhelming support it has received from the Council members," Vimal said.

Not Evolution, Just Dilution

Vimal argued that the existing 21-point system has long provided a fair and balanced contest across playing styles, especially in singles.

“The existing format ensured a true level-playing field… Men’s and Women’s Singles have always embodied the essence of our sport: skill, resilience, fitness, and mental strength," he noted.

The new format, which effectively reduces match duration, risks stripping away that depth, he believes.

“By effectively removing one game’s worth of play, BWF risks diluting what made these events so compelling. The explanation that this will ‘create early excitement’ feels short-sighted," he said, adding that badminton has never lacked intensity.

While not entirely against innovation, Vimal questioned the approach taken by the governing body.

“If change was necessary, why not apply it selectively to doubles formats, while preserving the integrity of Singles? That would have been a more balanced approach," he said bluntly. “This is not evolution. This is dilution."

Notably, prominent Indian players like PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal had also voiced concerns before the vote, backing the continuation of the 21-point system.

Bigger Issues Being Ignored

Beyond scoring, Vimal highlighted deeper concerns within the sport, particularly around player welfare and governance.

“No prize money for the World Championships; no meaningful increase in rewards for Singles; no implementation of a review/referral system," he pointed out, calling them far more pressing issues.

He stressed that badminton already demands extreme physical endurance, with top-level matches often featuring nearly an hour of shuttle time.

Players’ Voices Missing

Perhaps his strongest criticism was reserved for the lack of player representation in decision-making.

“Players are expected to adapt, but are rarely heard," Vimal said. “While other global sports are empowering athletes and improving systems, badminton seems to be moving in the opposite direction."

In his view, the sport risks losing its core identity not because it refuses to evolve, but because it’s evolving in the wrong direction.

(with PTI inputs)

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