Too Fast Or Long Overdue? Players Split On BWF’s 25-Second Serve Timer

Last Updated:January 18, 2026, 18:30 IST

BWF will test a 25-second time clock at Indonesia Masters to curb delays, sparking mixed reactions from various players.

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The Badminton World Federation (BWF) will continue testing its 25-second time clock at next week’s Indonesia Masters, as part of a broader push to curb tactical delays and standardise match flow on the World Tour — a move that has sharply divided opinion across the badminton community.

Under the proposed system, the clock begins once the umpire updates the score. Both server and receiver must be ready to play within 25 seconds or risk sanction. Players are allowed to towel off, hydrate, or apply cold spray without seeking permission, provided they are prepared before time expires. Umpires retain discretion to extend the break in exceptional situations such as medical treatment or extensive court mopping.

China’s world number two Wang Zi Yi welcomed the initiative, saying players would adapt if the rule was enforced consistently.

“If the rule is going to apply, players will adjust to it. It will address the issue of delay by players," she said.

Others remain unconvinced. Denmark’s Mathias Christiansen questioned whether the clock would actually tackle gamesmanship, arguing that proactive officiating already solves most issues.

“I’m a little sceptical. If umpires manage matches well, I don’t think there is a problem," he said, adding that the rule may not eliminate tactical delays.

Tokyo Olympic champion Chen Yu Fei highlighted physical concerns, noting that recovery after long rallies could prove difficult.

“After long rallies, 20–25 seconds doesn’t feel like enough, but we can try," she said.

The BWF defended the timing after analysing hundreds of Major Championship and World Tour matches. Data showed that rallies averaged nine seconds, while time between points stretched to 22 seconds, prompting the federation to conclude that 25 seconds strikes a balance between recovery and rhythm.

Opinions among coaches are equally split. Korea’s Hyunil Lee called the window excessive, suggesting even less time would suffice, while former India doubles player and coach B Sumeeth Reddy backed standardisation but warned against rigid enforcement.

“From a spectator’s point of view, endless pauses are boring," Reddy said. “But after a 100-shot rally, you can’t expect players to be ready immediately. Sensibility has to apply."

Former India player Arvind Bhat supported the rule, saying ambiguity around recovery time had encouraged gamesmanship.

“With a time clock, it becomes fair for both players," he said.

Approved by the BWF Council last August, the system has already been trialled at select tournaments and will undergo further testing and consultation before any permanent rollout decision is made.

(with PTI inputs)

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