Badminton matches in progress during the India Open 2026. (Express photo by Abhinav Saha)

The Badminton World Federation voted in the 15×3 scoring system with an overwhelming 198-43 margin at its annual AGM in Horsens, Denmark on Saturday. The 21×3 format, in existence since 2006, coincided with the peak years of Lin Dan and Lee Chong Wei, as well as the golden generation of women’s singles and men’s doubles. Broadcasters considerations and player fatigue and injuries have been attributed as reasons to shorten the game.

In the new format slated to rung in from January 4, 2027 the mid-set break of 60 seconds will occur at the 8th point instead of at 11th. The end of the set break will be of 120 seconds.…