![\"'This](\"https:\/\/static.toiimg.com\/thumb\/msid-130528449,imgsize-42700,width-400,height-225,resizemode-4\/badminton-ap-photo.jpg\" "\\"Badminton")
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\nNEW DELHI: Former India coach Vimal Kumar has strongly criticised the Badminton World Federation\u2019s decision to introduce a new scoring system, saying it could harm the sport rather than improve it.The BWF recently approved a 3×15 format, replacing the long-standing 21-point system, with the change set to come into effect from January 2027.<\/p>\n Vimal didn\u2019t hide his disappointment over the decision and the support it received. \u201cExtremely 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. It’s disheartening to see a sport followed so passionately, especially across Asia, being reshaped for reasons that do not address its real challenges,\u201d he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).He believes the current system offers a fair contest across different playing styles and tests players fully. \u201cThe existing (21-point) format ensured a true level-playing field across playing styles, especially in the premier events,\u201d he added.Vimal also questioned the idea that shorter matches would make badminton more exciting. \u201cBadminton has never lacked excitement — what it has offered is sustained intensity,\u201d he said, warning that reducing match length could take away from what makes the sport special.<\/p>\n According to Vimal, if changes were needed, they could have been applied only to doubles, keeping singles untouched. \u201cIf change was necessary, why not apply it selectively to doubles formats\u2026 This is not evolution. This is dilution.\u201dHe also pointed out bigger issues that, in his view, deserve more attention. \u201cEqually concerning is the continued neglect of player welfare and voice: No prize money for the World Championships\u2026 No implementation of a review\/referral system,\u201d he said.Vimal further added, \u201cPlayers are expected to adapt — but are rarely heard,\u201d stressing that badminton risks moving in the wrong direction if athletes\u2019 concerns continue to be ignored.<\/div>\n\u2018This is not evolution, this is dilution\u2019<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
Concerns beyond scoring system<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n