Malaysia Open Secures Elite Status in BWF 2027-2030 Cycle; Shifts to April-May Window
KUALA LUMPUR – The Badminton World Federation (BWF) today officially unveiled the tournament hosts for the 2027-2030 World Tour cycle, confirming that the Malaysia Open will retain its prestigious Super 1000 status.
The announcement, made earlier today in Kuala Lumpur, cements Malaysia’s position at the pinnacle of world badminton for another four years. However, the tournament is set for a massive transformation, featuring a new schedule, a revolutionary format, and a record-breaking prize pool.
Strategic Calendar Shift: Goodbye, January?
In a move widely anticipated by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), the tournament is expected to vacate its traditional “season-opener” slot in early January.
BAM had previously lobbied for the event to be moved to April or May to alleviate player fatigue following the season-ending World Tour Finals. This shift provides elite athletes with a crucial mid-season peak rather than a rushed start to the year.
“This rescheduling is a strategic win for player welfare,” noted a BAM spokesperson. “Moving to the second quarter allows for better preparation and ensures fans see the world’s best at their physical peak.”
Revolutionary 11-Day Format & Round Robin
The most significant changes involve how the game is played on the court. Starting in 2027, the Malaysia Open will transition from a six-day event to a comprehensive 11-day festival.
- Singles Overhaul: The Men’s and Women’s singles draws will expand to 48 players. In a departure from traditional “knockout only” systems, the singles events will now feature a round-robin group stage, ensuring that star players are guaranteed multiple matches before the knockout rounds begin.
- Doubles Consistency: All three doubles disciplines will maintain a 32-pair knockout format.
- Venue: Despite the expanded schedule, the tournament remains anchored at its home ground: the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil.
A Record-Breaking Prize Pool
The financial stakes are also reaching new heights. The total prize money for the Malaysia Open will surge from the current US$1.45 million to a minimum of US$2 million.
| Currency | 2023-2026 Cycle | 2027-2030 Cycle (Est.) |
| US Dollar (USD) | $1.45 Million | $2.0 Million |
| Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) | ~RM 6.1 Million | ~RM 8.4 Million* |
*Based on an estimated exchange rate of 1 USD = 4.2 MYR.
What This Means for Fans
The extension to 11 days means more matches will be produced for a global audience, with the BWF committing to 100% broadcast coverage for all Super 1000 matches. For local fans, the “festival-style” activation plan means more off-court entertainment, player meet-and-greets, and a more immersive experience at the stadium.
With Malaysia retaining its spot alongside the All England, China Open, Indonesia Open, and the newly elevated Denmark Open in the elite Super 1000 tier, the nation continues to be a central pillar of the badminton world.
