Pullela Gopichand Warns New BWF Scoring System Could Reshape Badminton and Impact Players
India's chief national coach, Pullela Gopichand, has warned that badminton's upcoming transition to a 15-point scoring format could dramatically reshape the sport. While some competitors are expected to thrive under the new system, Gopichand cautioned that others may struggle to survive the tactical shift.
The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has approved the introduction of the 15x3 scoring system starting next year, which will replace the current best-of-three games to 21 points. The international governing body has argued that the shorter format will help reduce player workload within an increasingly crowded global tournament calendar.
However, Gopichand, who experienced a similar scoring overhaul during his own playing career, believes the transition will not be without casualties. He noted that such changes can have a major impact on a player's career, potentially benefiting some while forcing others out of the game.
Lessons From Past Scoring Overhauls
Reflecting on his personal experience as a player, Gopichand recalled how previous scoring changes affected his performance. After winning the All England Open, the scoring system was changed from 15 points to 7 points just a few months later.
As a stroke player, Gopichand found that he required time to adjust, taking a full year to return to his peak form. Later, when the sport reverted to the longer format, it presented an even greater challenge.
According to Gopichand, transitioning back to the 15-point system after training for shorter games was highly difficult because a player's endurance drops during the shorter format. He explained that training and detraining to accommodate these shifts can deliver a severe blow to a player's physical conditioning.
Tactical Shifts and Mental Pressure
Drawing parallels to the upcoming transition, Gopichand stated that the 15-point format will place a premium on speed, power, and mental resilience. With fewer points available in each game, every single exchange carries heightened significance.
Under the new system, Gopichand believes that avoiding errors will be just as critical as scoring points. Players will need to maintain top-notch focus, speed, and power, with mental strength playing a much larger role in the outcome of matches.
The former All England champion predicted that doubles specialists are likely to experience the most significant impact. In doubles, the serve, serve-return, and attacking phases will become even more fierce, making it essential for players to hold their nerves and execute their strokes under pressure.
Additionally, Gopichand expects pressure moments to arrive much earlier in matches. He identified the 11th and 12th points as crucial junctures in the game, noting that how players handle the pressure at scores like 13-14 or 15-14 will become decisive factors.
Questions Over BWF Rationale
While acknowledging the potential benefits of a shorter format, Gopichand questioned the BWF's reasoning that the change is designed to reduce player workload. He pointed out a contradiction in the governing body's approach to scheduling.
Gopichand argued that if the BWF plans to extend tournament schedules to two weeks, it would make little sense to shorten the matches while simultaneously lengthening the events. He suggested that player rest could have been better achieved by extending tournaments over a 10-to-12-day period instead of the traditional six days, though he acknowledged the BWF likely has its own subjective reasons.
Furthermore, Gopichand expressed concern that the 15-point system could alter the very identity of badminton. He fears the sport will miss out on creative stroke play, as the shorter format encourages safer, flatter, and more parallel exchanges rather than allowing players the freedom to open up their arms and showcase diverse skills.
