PETALING JAYA: Badminton fans can look forward to huge changes in the sport from 2027 onwards.
Among the changes announced by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) are increasing the World Tour Super 1000 from four to five tournaments, expanding the duration of competitions and increasing the annual prize pool of up to RM105.717 million (US$26.9).
In Super 1000 competitions, singles events will include 48 players competing in groups before the elimination rounds, while doubles events will follow the existing format of a 32-pair knockout draw.
Each tournament will take place over 11 days, spanning two weekends.
There will also be changes in the World Championships which will adopt a group-stage format followed by knockout play, ensuring all competitors contest at least two matches - just like the Olympic Games.
This reduces early eliminations and strengthens fan engagement across more markets.
The Sudirman Cup and Thomas and Uber Cup Finals will expand to more teams, delivering broader international representation and competitive diversity.
The introduction of two-week formats across more tournament levels is among BWF’s efforts to improve playing conditions for the world’s leading players.
Extending the competition window enables more balanced scheduling and gives athletes greater recovery time between matches.
This approach aligns with the BWF’s strategic objective of supporting athletes in their pursuit of excellence and enabling them to sustain longer, more successful careers in badminton.
“We are building a sport that speaks to the next generation. Every element, from competition formats with increased prize money, to broadcast strategy and sponsorship value chains has been reimagined to meet the demands of a truly global sport in the 21st century,” said BWF president Patama Leeswadtrakul.
“It is a bold undertaking, but it is exactly what our sport needs to thrive.
BWF secretary general Thomas Lund said: “Our focus is on building a future-ready framework that drives sustainable growth and amplifies badminton’s global reach. Together, BWF and Infront (television and branding partner) are serving more drama, more opportunities for players, and a richer experience for fans and broadcasters alike,” said Lund.
“This move reinforces badminton’s position as a globally competitive and commercially attractive sport, while underscoring our commitment to put players at the heart of the game, ensuring fair rewards and sustaining their long-term participation at the highest level.”
