Time Clock Testing to Continue at Denmark and French Opens

The VICTOR Denmark Open 2026 (13-18 October) and YONEX French Open 2026 (20-25 October) will provide the next opportunity for the BWF to evaluate its Time Clock System ahead of a targeted implementation in Q1 2027.

The Time Clock initiative is designed to improve consistency, transparency and fairness in the management of time between rallies.

Developed in response to longstanding feedback from players and coaches regarding inconsistent management of delays between rallies, the system introduces a more objective framework for continuous play while preserving umpire judgement and flexibility.

Importantly, the Time Clock is intended to support greater consistency in officiating, not replace umpire judgement.

Detailed guidance has been provided to technical officials, players and coaches, while flexibility remains for situations such as injuries, disputes, referee interventions and other exceptional circumstances.

Testing in Denmark and France over the next fortnight will focus on stakeholder feedback, implementation consistency, and player and umpire adaptation.

The findings will help inform the final evaluation of the Time Clock System as BWF continues its efforts to deliver a more consistent and transparent approach to the management of continuous play across elite badminton.