Kuala Lumpur – In a move to enhance the sport’s presentation and maintain continuous play, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) has announced plans to test a new time clock system at select tournaments starting in 2026. The BWF Council, at its meeting on August 29, 2025, approved new regulations to allow for comprehensive testing of the system at certain BWF World Tour events.
The core of the new regulation, which will be implemented during Week 27 (November 18-23, 2025), is a 25-second time limit between each rally. The clock will begin as soon as the umpire updates the score. The BWF states that the server must be prepared to serve, and the receiver must be ready to receive, within this 25-second window.
This initiative is a response to data analysis from hundreds of matches at major championships and World Tour tournaments. The BWF’s analysis found that on average, without any interruptions, there were 22 seconds between rallies. The new 25-second rule aims to strike a balance between allowing players sufficient rest and maintaining a consistent pace of play.
Under the new rules, players will have the freedom to perform activities such as toweling off, taking a drink, or even applying cold spray without requiring the umpire’s permission, as long as they are ready to serve or receive within the allocated time. This is a significant change, as these activities previously required the umpire’s approval.
However, umpires will retain the discretion to allow for more than 25 seconds in specific situations, such as medical interventions or significant mopping on the court.
The BWF has already conducted preliminary, non-enforced systems tests at a recent World Tour tournament to determine the best locations for displaying the time clock for players, coaches, and officials. Further testing is planned for the coming months.
As part of the consultation process, the BWF has invited its member associations to conduct their own internal testing and to share feedback from their coaches, players, and other stakeholders. An online survey is also being conducted, with responses due by September 19, 2025. The BWF hopes this extensive testing and consultation period will help refine the system and ensure a smooth implementation in 2026.