Badminton Rules: Complete Guide to the New 2027 Rules
Badminton can be played in both singles and doubles, with straightforward rules that are easy to learn. However, details such as scoring, serving, and court boundaries can sometimes be confusing for beginners.
In 2027, badminton will introduce an important change to the scoring system, reducing the score per game from 21 points to 15 points. The new rules will officially take effect on January 4, 2027, making it important for both new and experienced players to understand how the new system differs from the current rules.
What Changes in the 2027 Badminton Rules?
The biggest change to the badminton rules in 2027 is the scoring system. The match format will remain Best of 3, meaning the player or pair that wins two games first wins the match.
Under the new system, each game is played to 15 points. If the score reaches 14–14, play continues until one side leads by 2 points. However, the maximum score is 21 points. If the score reaches 20–20, the side that scores the next point wins the game.
The break between games remains up to 2 minutes. The interval during a game will also change from 11 points to 8 points, while players will change ends in the third game when either side reaches 8 points.
Old vs. New Badminton Rules 2027
Simply put, the target score changes from 21 to 15 points, while the scoring method remains the same. The side that wins each Rally earns 1 point, regardless of whether they are serving or receiving.
How Does Badminton Scoring Work in 2027?
Under the new system, the player or pair that reaches 15 points first wins the game. If the score is 14–14, play continues until one side leads by 2 points.
For example, a score of 15–13 ends the game immediately. However, 15–14 does not end the game because a 2-point lead is required. If the score reaches 20–20, the side that scores 21 points first wins the game.
A badminton match will continue to use the Best of 3 format, so the player or pair that wins two games first wins the match.
Badminton Serving Rules
Serving remains an important part of badminton. The server must serve the shuttle diagonally into the opponent's service court.
The serving position is determined by the server's score. When the score is even, the serve is made from the right side, while an odd score means serving from the left side.
The main change introduced in 2027 focuses on the scoring system, while the basic serving rules remain in place. Players familiar with the current 21-point system can therefore focus on adapting to the new scoring format.
Singles and Doubles Badminton Rules
Badminton is mainly divided into Singles and Doubles. The key differences are the number of players and the court area used during play.
Singles Badminton Rules
Singles matches have one player on each side and use a narrower court compared with doubles. The inner side lines define the boundaries of the court.
During a serve, the player must serve from the correct service court based on the score, and the shuttle must land within the opponent's service area. If the shuttle lands outside the designated area or a fault occurs, the opponent wins the point.
Doubles Badminton Rules
Doubles matches have two players on each side and use a wider court. Players must follow the correct serving order and change serving courts according to their team's score.
As with singles, the side that wins the Rally earns 1 point. When continuing to serve, the serving side changes service courts according to its score.
What Are Common Badminton Faults?
A fault occurs when a player breaks a rule, resulting in a point for the opponent. Common examples include:
- Hitting the shuttle outside the court boundaries
- Failing to hit the shuttle over the net
- Hitting the shuttle twice by the same player
- Touching the net with the player or racket during play
- The shuttle touching a player's body or clothing
- Hitting the shuttle before it has crossed to the player's side
- Serving incorrectly
A simple rule to remember is to hit the shuttle over the net and into the correct court area without touching the net or breaking the rules during play.
Essential Badminton Equipment
Knowing the badminton rules is important, but having the right equipment can also make playing more comfortable. Essential badminton equipment includes a badminton racket, court shoes, shuttlecocks, and other accessories.
YONEX Arcsaber 7 Tour
A badminton racket designed to provide good control and accuracy. It is suitable for players who want to control their shots and maintain consistency during rallies.
ASICS Gel-Rocket 11
An Indoor Court shoe designed to support impact absorption and movement on the court. It features GEL™ technology for added cushioning and TRUSSTIC™ technology for stability during quick changes of direction, along with a breathable mesh upper.
RSL Silver Speed 75
A competition-grade duck feather shuttlecock designed to provide consistent flight and good control. It features a Composite Cork head for added durability and is suitable for club-level players and quality training sessions. Speed 75 is suitable for warm conditions or courts with low air movement.
