Athletes Adapt to New 15-Point Scoring System at 2026 AUC Badminton

On the third day of the 2026 AUC Badminton in Taipei, competition moved into the individual events, with athletes continuing to compete under the new 15-point scoring system. The format, expected to be adopted by the Badminton World Federation, has enabled athletes to adapt to the faster pace of play. 

For Chinese Taipei coach Lu Ching-Yao, the biggest difference is not just the score itself, but the timing of every decision. Under the new format, they must act decisively and not waste time evaluating their opponents, “You have to switch tactics much earlier,” he said. “There is less room to settle into a match slowly.” He added that the format puts more pressure on pre-match preparation and makes a fast start even more important.

Many athletes seem to welcome the quicker pace. Mak Pak Ngai from City University of Hong Kong said the shorter format intensifies each point and gives underdogs more opportunities. John Benedict Oliveros and GATDULA Thomas Neo from the Philippines also said they see it as a useful change, especially because it tests agility, speed, and fitness in different ways.

LOW Yeen Yuan, who had already experienced a similar format at the 2025 World University Games, said the new scoring system demands sharper concentration from the very first point. HO Lo Ee agreed, saying the pace is so fast that players need to get into rhythm earlier, even before they are fully warmed up.

As the 2026 AUC Badminton continues, the new format is already shaping how athletes think, prepare, and compete.

Athletes Experience Taipei's Cuisine and Culture during the 2026 AUC Badminton Championship

On the sidelines of the 2026 AUC Badminton in Taipei, athletes have been making the most of their time off court by exploring local food and popular attractions around the city.

For many visitors, local food has left a strong impression. AMPO MUTSUKI from the University of Tsukuba said bubble milk tea quickly became his favorite drink. "I've already had six bubble milk teas," he laughed.

Athletes from Hong Kong, China, also shared a long list of local foods they have enjoyed, including bubble milk tea, sweet potato balls, braised pork rice, grilled sausage wrapped in sticky rice, and mango smoothies. YANG Yan Pui said one of the most memorable dishes was the peanut ice cream roll. "It's very unique because it has cilantro inside," she said.

The Singaporean team has also been sampling local specialties. LAI Zong Yi and KAT Zi Jie Kenneth said they enjoyed mutton soup near their hotel, while bubble milk tea has become part of their daily routine. "We've been having one cup every day," they said.

Beyond food, athletes are eager to explore more of Taipei. Several members of the Hong Kong team said they had already visited the Shilin Night Market, while CHAN Cheuk Lok hoped to spend time in Ximending. Malaysian athletes JUAN ZHEN LIANG, Jeremy, and LIEW Xun shared that they would like to visit the Xinyi District and experience one of Taipei's most vibrant areas.

As the championship continues, the athletes are not only creating memories on court but also discovering the flavors and culture that make Taipei a popular destination for visitors from across Asia.