The BWF's Bold Vision: A Longer, Richer Tour
The **Badminton World Federation (BWF)** is set to revolutionize its **World Tour** from the **2027-2030 cycle**, but not everyone is cheering. A radical overhaul of the flagship **Super 1000** tournaments promises longer, richer events, yet it's already sparking intense debate among players and pundits.
Key Points:
- **Super 1000** events will expand to **11 days**, featuring a group stage for singles players.
- Singles draws will grow from 32 to **48 players**.
- Prize money for **Super 1000s** is boosted to **US$2 million** per tournament.
- Former international **Datuk Razif Sidek** warns of significant financial strain on national associations and independent shuttlers.
The **BWF's** ambitious plan will transform five of its premier **Super 1000** tournaments into extended, two-weekend spectaculars. This significant shift from the current six-day format aims to elevate the sport's biggest stages, offering an unprecedented **US$2 million** prize purse for each event.
Under the new structure, the overall **World Tour** calendar will comprise **36 tournaments**, including the World Tour Finals, five **Super 1000s**, five **Super 750s**, nine **Super 500s**, eight **Super 300s**, and eight fully integrated **Super 100s**.
One of the most dramatic changes impacts the singles events in **Super 1000s**. The draw will expand from 32 to **48 players**, adopting a group-stage format before progressing to knockout rounds. Doubles events, however, will maintain their traditional 32-pair knockout system.
Financial Pinch: Player Burden Under the Spotlight
While the promise of increased prize money sounds appealing, not everyone is convinced it will ease the pressure on athletes. Legendary Malaysian shuttler **Datuk Razif Sidek** has voiced strong reservations, highlighting the substantial financial implications for both national associations like the **Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM)** and independent players.
Razif argues that an **11-day** event is simply too long, leading to excessive rest days that don't justify the prolonged stay. He points out that under the existing format, players can compete in consecutive tournaments (e.g., a **Super 1000** and a **Super 750**) over two weeks, maximizing their earnings and ranking points.
The Cost of Early Exits
**Datuk Razif Sidek** is particularly concerned about players who exit in the early stages.
