NEW DELHI (AFP) - Badminton could soon see a new scoring system at the top level to benefit television coverage and make contests more attractive for viewers, the sport's governing body said on Tuesday.

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) will open discussions on the subject this weekend in New Delhi on the sidelines of the ongoing men's Thomas Cup and women's Uber Cup team championships.

The BWF has already sounded out the players on three alternate options to replace the existing system that has the winner reaching 21 points, two points clear of his opponent, in a best-of-three game format. Currently games can go to 30 points if the gap is one point.

One suggestion is to have two games of 21 each with the decider, if needed, played for 11 points.

Another format is 15 points for each game, while a third suggestion is to play five games of nine points each.

A difference of two points will still be needed for the winner.

A change in the scoring pattern is being discussed for the first time since 2006 when the 21-point pattern was introduced.

"The BWF will be considering the matter as it seeks to continue innovative developments to improve badminton in all contexts - for fans, television, live streaming and for players at every level," the governing body said in a statement.

"We think the time is right to discuss a news system with our members so generations to come continue enjoying badminton at its best," BWF secretary-general Thomas Lund added.

The BWF plans to trial the selected format at small tournaments and seek feedback from various stakeholders before it is introduced at major events like the world championships or the Olympics.