PETALING JAYA: Why change something that is not broken?
That is the question Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) performance committee director Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei is asking as he expressed concern over the Badminton World Federation’s (BWF) proposal to introduce a new 15x3 scoring format.
The world body are set to decide on the matter during their Annual General Meeting on Saturday, held in conjunction with the Thomas and Uber Cup Finals in Horsens, Denmark.
“Players are quite comfortable with the current 21x3 scoring format. I think more are in favour of it,” said Chong Wei.
“We started with the original 15x3 with service exchange, then briefly moved to 5x11 before settling on what we are using now.
“All seems good and suited for the audience. Matches are short and quite entertaining to watch.”
The 43-year-old, however, understands the rationale behind the proposal but hopes a balanced decision will be made.
“They are looking at making matches shorter and more commercially viable,” he said.
“This 15x3 format (with setting to 21) could allow older players to keep playing.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if 36-year-old Chou Tien-chen continues if the new format is adopted. Maybe I might even return as well,” he joked.
“I hope the world body take into consideration the pulse of the people on the ground before deciding. Most are hesitant about a change.”
The format has been tested at several Grade Three tournaments and the World Junior Championships, but has yet to be used in top-tier events.
Research by BWF showed that the 15x3 format could make matches more exciting and competitive, allows faster progress to critical points, which leads to shorter, more predictable durations.
The governing body added that fewer points could improve scheduling, tournament flow and broadcast consistency, while also supporting player recovery and reducing fatigue.
