Overview
- BWF members approved the switch Saturday at the AGM in Horsens by a 198–43 vote, clearing the required two‑thirds threshold.
- Matches remain best of three to 15 points with a 60‑second break at 8, win‑by‑two after 15, and a ceiling at 21–20.
- The rules take effect on January 4, 2027, while the rest of 2026, including the Delhi World Championships, stays 3×21 and the 2028 Olympics will run 3×15.
- BWF says testing in 2025 showed 3×15 cut match length and produced tighter scores, which it argues will aid scheduling and recovery.
- Players and coaches are split, with PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal and Vimal Kumar warning of fewer comebacks and tactical change, while some like Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and China’s Chen Yufei expect advantages in shorter, high‑intensity games.