The Badminton World Federation (BWF) is proposing a major change to its rules, introducing a 25-second time clock between rallies in an effort to streamline matches and ensure continuous play. The new system, which would be implemented at select major championships and World Tour tournaments starting in 2026, aims to replace the current, more subjective rules regarding delays.
The proposal was a key topic at the “Events Innovation” session during the BWF Members Forum on April 26, 2025. While Clause 16.4 of the Laws of Badminton currently allows umpires to address delays, the BWF Council believes a time clock will make this a more objective process.
How the New System Would Work
Under the proposed rules, a clock will start ticking the moment the umpire updates the score. The serving player will have 25 seconds to be ready to serve. The receiving player must also be ready to receive once the server is in position.
The BWF Council has approved these key principles for the new system:
- 25-Second Limit: Players will be allocated 25 seconds between each rally.
- Clock Start: The clock begins when the umpire announces the updated score.
- Discretionary Power: Umpires will retain the ability to extend the time limit in specific situations, such as for medical interventions or significant court cleaning.
- Player Freedoms: Players will be able to perform normal activities like toweling off or getting a drink without the umpire’s permission, as long as they are ready to play within the 25-second window.
Data-Driven Decision
The BWF’s decision to propose a 25-second time limit is backed by data analysis from hundreds of matches. The study found that, on average, there were 22 seconds between rallies when no incidents occurred. The median time was 19 seconds. The BWF believes that 25 seconds is the right amount of time to balance a player’s need for rest with the goal of ensuring continuous play.
The BWF has already conducted a preliminary, non-enforced test of the system at a recent World Tour tournament to determine the best location for the time clock display. More testing is planned for the coming months.
Seeking Feedback from Members
Before moving forward with comprehensive tests, the BWF is inviting member organizations to conduct their own internal testing and provide feedback on the proposed principles. The federation is particularly interested in hearing whether members believe 25 seconds is a fair compromise between player rest and continuous play. A survey will be circulated to all members, with a deadline for submission of Friday, September 19, 2025.