How to Keep Score in Badminton
Badminton uses rally scoring, so every rally awards one point. Through January 3, 2027, the international format remains best of three games to 21. BWF has approved a new best-of-three, games-to-15 system beginning January 4, 2027.
Start a badminton scoreboard- Current international format
- Best of 3 to 21
- Current cap
- First to 30 at 29–29
- From Jan. 4, 2027
- Best of 3 to 15
How badminton scoring works
- 01
Award one point to the side that wins each rally.
- 02
Under the current 3×21 system, win a game at 21 with a two-point lead. At 29–29, the next point wins 30–29.
- 03
The first side to win two games wins the match.
- 04
Starting January 4, 2027, BWF international play changes to games to 15 with a two-point margin and a cap at 21.
Choose the rules your event uses
Governing bodies, age groups, and tournament directors can use different formats. Confirm the format before play.
Win by two, capped at 30. This remains the international format through January 3, 2027.
Win by two, capped at 21. BWF implementation begins January 4, 2027.
Schools and recreation programs may use shorter games. Confirm the tournament rules before starting.
Keep the scoreboard clean
- ✓Use the current 21-point setting unless your event has adopted 3×15 early.
- ✓Add one point after every rally.
- ✓At 20–20, keep playing until a two-point lead or the 30-point cap.
Read the complete rules
This guide covers scoreboard essentials, not every playing rule. Local competition rules take precedence.