New Delhi, April 15: Renowned badminton player Viktor Axelsen, a two-time Olympic medalist, announced his retirement from professional badminton on Wednesday at the age of 32. The decision comes due to ongoing back issues.
Axelsen has been sidelined since earlier this year after winning titles at the India Open and German Open. His back problems have hindered his ability to train and compete at the required level.
In a statement to Badminton Europe, Axelsen expressed, “Due to persistent back issues, not recovering post-surgery, and recurring pain, I had to make the difficult decision to retire.”
He added, “Most people know I have been struggling with back problems. I underwent surgery last April and went through a long rehabilitation process. I faced a setback in October. Since those tournaments, I have not been able to play or train at the necessary level due to pain.”
Axelsen made his professional debut in 2010. Since then, he has won major titles at the World Tour Super 1000 level or higher, except for the Sudirman Cup, in both team and individual events. He is only the second non-Asian player to win the World Championships twice (2017 and 2022). Axelsen holds the record for the most Olympic medals won by a male badminton player, securing gold medals at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, along with a bronze at the Rio 2016 Olympics. He is also a three-time European champion and has won the Thomas Cup.
Axelsen revealed that his retirement decision was made after consulting with the doctor who performed his surgery. The doctor indicated that he might require another surgery for the pain he is currently experiencing, and if not addressed, further complications could arise. Therefore, he feels his body is urging him to stop.
Leave a Comment