Petaling BC's Brice Leverdez in acation against Kittipong Imnark of Sena Bengkok during the semi final at Arena of Stars in Genting Higlands (08/10/2022/ S.S.Kanesan/The Star)
GENTING HIGHLANDS: French men’s singles shuttler Brice Leverdez believes the current 21-point system is more relevant in international tournaments despite admitting that he enjoyed the 11-point format.
Leverdez is currently playing for Petaling Badminton Club in the Senheng RedOne Purple League Professional where the 11-point system is being used.
“I really like this version as it suits my style of play. I prefer shorter rallies and this format gives you the opportunity to put more pressure on your opponents at the net. These are areas where I’m good at,” said Leverdez.
But the Frenchman felt that it was more complicated to introduce the 11-point system in international tournaments.
“While this system suits older players like me and helps us play longer, it’s very difficult to compare different players who played different systems,” he said.
“It’s already hard to compare those who played the 15-point system with those who are playing the 21-point system. So, it’s not easy to judge who is the best player of all time.
“For the 21-point system, we can say it’s Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen but we can’t be sure if he is the best when it comes to the 15-point system.
“So, for the record books in badminton, I don’t think changing to an 11-point system is good. Look at tennis for example, where they never changed the points system for a long time and this makes it possible to compare players from different eras,” explained Leverdez.
Yesterday, the 36-year-old proved his ability in the 11-point system when he smashed his way past Sena Bangkok Club’s Kittipong Imnark 11-4, 11-7,11-8 to lead Petaling into the final at the Arena of Stars here.
“This is my second time playing in the Purple League and I’m really happy to win as I lost my match in the semi-finals when I appeared for Ampang Jaya Badminton Club. I’m glad to make up for it this time,” said Leverdez.
