BWF's Overhauled Calendar Reduces India's Badminton Footprint
The Badminton World Federation's (BWF) newly revamped global schedule has delivered a significant blow to India's standing on the international badminton circuit. While the prestigious India Open in New Delhi has managed to retain its elite Super 750 status, the Syed Modi International tournament in Lucknow has suffered a substantial downgrade, moving from a Super 300 event to the lower-tier Super 100 category.
India's Tournament Count Halved in Global Restructuring
In a move that slashes India's representation, two other Indian tournaments previously held in Guwahati and Odisha have been completely removed from the BWF World Tour calendar. This reduction means India will host only two BWF-sanctioned events moving forward, down from the previous four. The BWF has not provided specific explanations for why these particular tournaments were either downgraded or eliminated from the schedule.
The India Open, despite facing recent criticism from players regarding organizational issues including cleanliness concerns, will continue as one of the premier Super 750 tournaments through the 2027–2030 cycle. This decision underscores the event's established importance on the global stage, even as it navigates operational challenges.
Meanwhile, the Syed Modi International, which began in 2009 and joined the World Tour in 2018, will now occupy the lowest tier of events on the professional circuit. This represents a notable demotion for a tournament that has been part of India's badminton landscape for over a decade.
BWF Announces Comprehensive World Tour Restructuring
The federation has unveiled a major overhaul of its World Tour structure, which will now feature 36 tournaments distributed across six competitive levels. The total prize money across the tour will see a substantial increase, reaching approximately USD 26.9 million annually. Financial rewards will be enhanced at every tier, with Super 1000 events offering USD 2 million in prize money and Super 100 tournaments providing USD 140,000.
Beyond financial changes, the BWF is implementing format modifications designed to increase excitement and inclusivity within the sport. Beginning in 2027, the World Championships will introduce a group stage prior to knockout rounds, ensuring all participating players compete in at least two matches. Additionally, team events including the Sudirman Cup, Thomas Cup, and Uber Cup will expand to include more nations, broadening international participation.
Building a Future-Ready Sport for Global Audiences
BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul emphasized the strategic vision behind these changes, stating: "We are building a sport that speaks to the next generation. Every element, from competition formats with increased prize money, to broadcast strategy and sponsorship value chains, has been reimagined to meet the demands of a truly global sport in the 21st century."
BWF Secretary General Thomas Lund reinforced this player-centric approach, adding: "Our focus is on building a future-ready framework that drives sustainable growth and amplifies badminton's global reach. This move reinforces badminton's position as a globally competitive and commercially attractive sport, while underscoring our commitment to put players at the heart of the game, ensuring fair rewards and sustaining their long-term participation at the highest level."
The restructuring reflects the BWF's comprehensive strategy to enhance badminton's commercial appeal while prioritizing athlete welfare and competitive fairness. As India adjusts to its reduced tournament presence, the global badminton community prepares for a transformed competitive landscape with expanded opportunities and increased financial incentives across all levels of play.
