01/14/2026
New timing rules to be tried out for International competitions:
Time Clock and Continuous Play: What to Know
Tuesday, January 13, 2026
TEXT BY BWF STAFF
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Following its successful implementation in all qualifying matches at the SATHIO GROUP Australian Open 2025, the Time Clock System will be further tested at the DAIHATSU Indonesia Masters 2026 from 20-25 January 2026. The system will be in effect for all matches (qualifying and main draw), with full enforcement by umpires as per regulations.
During the trial period, selected HSBC BWF World Tour tournaments will have this feature.
The What
BWF is introducing a 25-second Time Clock between rallies to make matches faster and more consistent. New regulations clearly define what players can and cannot do between points.
The Why
Addresses player complaints that umpires judge delays differently. New rules:
Reduce confusion
Make timing rules clearer
Allow players freedom to towel, drink or talk to coaches
The How
After a rally ends, the server has 25 seconds to be ready to serve.
Players do not need to serve within 25 seconds – just be in position and ready.
Countdown clock beside the court shows the time.
Players must watch the clock themselves.
What about the receiver?
The receiver also has 25 seconds.
However, once the server is ready (even if under 25 seconds), the receiver cannot delay.
What happens if someone is slow?
The umpire may call undue delay.
This can lead to a warning, yellow card or red card.
What does ‘ready’ mean?
In serving/receiving position
Both feet still and on the ground
Server holding the shuttle
Receiver’s hand down
Players looking at each other
What can a player do in those 25 seconds?
Talk to coach
Towel off or drink
Tie shoes
Self-apply cold spray or other treatment
No umpire permission is needed for these. However, if a rally is lost, the player must follow the umpire’s instruction promptly.
Shuttle change and mopping
Shuttle changes must be requested immediately and completed within 25 seconds.
Short mopping keeps clock running; long mopping stops the clock.
Players must be ready to resume as soon as mopping finishes.
When else can the umpire stop the clock?
Disputes
Referee intervention
Injuries
Long IRS (challenge) decisions
Any unexpected situation
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