The BWF World Junior Championships, kicking off in Guwahati, bring together around 400 players from 36 countries in an edition defined by innovation. The Badminton World Federation -BWF- has introduced a new scoring system designed to test its viability for the sport’s future. This experimental format turns the tournament into a true testing ground to assess the impact of change on match dynamics and competitiveness.

Each tie will be played as the best of three sets up to 45 points, with five matches included in each set: men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. The score accumulates progressively —9, 18, 27, 36, and 45 points— and a set is decided by a single rally if the score reaches 44-all. The new system aims to bring faster pace, greater excitement, and a more balanced playing field without extending match duration.

More pressure, more parity, more surprises

Chinese coach Chen Long highlighted how traditional powerhouses could be challenged by emerging nations. Similarly, U.S. coach Sai Praneeth said the format creates constant pressure: “It’s a good chance for anyone to cause an upset if they’re good enough. It’s a new format, and everyone will be under pressure from the first point.”

For developing teams, the change represents a rare chance to compete on more equal terms. Countries such as India and Hong Kong China had already tested the system internally, while six developing nations —Bhutan, Egypt, Ghana, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Uganda— trialed it during a BWF development training camp. “It’s different and fast, you can’t afford to make mistakes. This gives us an opportunity against stronger teams,” said Sri Lankan coach Thushira Amarathunga.

Modernization and attracting new audiences

According to BWF leadership, the goal goes beyond simple technical experimentation. President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul explained that the new format is meant to “modernize badminton and protect athletes’ wellbeing, while making the sport more exciting and engaging for global audiences.” The federation views such innovations as essential to keeping badminton relevant in an increasingly competitive sports landscape.

BWF Secretary General Thomas Lund emphasized that any long-term change will depend on evidence and broad consultation. “It’s essential that this process remains inclusive and well-informed, guided by data and what’s best for badminton worldwide,” he said. Throughout the event, officials will collect statistics, feedback, and match analyses to evaluate the system’s impact before considering wider implementation

Mixed reactions across federations and experts

The new scoring system has sparked a range of opinions across the badminton community. Players like Malaysia’s Razeeq Danial Roslee see it positively, saying it forces athletes to “stay alert from the start and play more aggressively,” while coaches such as Pang Cheh Chang welcome the innovation but admit “it’s still too early to judge its real effect.” Most agree the format narrows the margin for error and increases intensity from the first rally.

Others remain cautious. Former player and commentator Ben Beckman warned the format could feel “too artificial” due to its cumulative nature, while India’s HS Prannoy questioned its value for player development. From the Badminton Association of India -BAI-, Sanjay Mishra added that players “prefer longer formats to fully express themselves,” though he acknowledged the initiative opens an important discussion about the sport’s direction.