PETALING JAYA: Independent shuttlers have already started adapting to the new 15x3 scoring system in training as they look to quickly adjust to the major change.
Former Olympic Games Rio 2016 silver medallist Tan Wee Kiong admitted it is still too early to fully assess the new system but believes one thing is certain — matches will become much shorter.
While the change could benefit older players like himself, Wee Kiong said the style of play is also expected to evolve, with players needing greater speed and power to win points.
“On paper, the matches look shorter and older players may see it as an advantage. But I think we still need to try it first because there could be situations we do not expect,” said Wee Kiong.
“So everyone needs to experience it first before I can give more detailed feedback. At the moment, we have already started training with the system, and it seems we need to play with even more speed and power.’’
Wee Kiong, 36, and his partner Nur Azriyn Ayub, 31, have around seven months before the 15x3 scoring format officially replaces the current 21x3 system on Jan 4 next year.
The new format was approved by the Badminton World Federation during their annual general meeting in Horsens on April 25 after receiving the required two-thirds majority vote.
The change was introduced to make badminton more exciting and competitive, while also improving scheduling consistency and potentially benefiting player welfare and recovery.
However, Wee Kiong said he has not thought too far ahead about extending his career despite suggestions that the new system could help older players remain competitive for longer.
“I haven’t really thought about that yet (playing longer) because I still have a two-year contract with my sponsor.
‘’Maybe by the time that ends, there could be another sponsor interested in supporting me, but I really don’t know,” he added.
