Home
Two-time Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen has announced his retirement from badminton, saying his body can no longer cope with the physical demands of the sport.
The 32-year-old Danish star has not played since October last year because of a serious back problem. He underwent surgery in April but continued to struggle with pain even after a long recovery period.
“As most people know, I have been struggling with my back for quite some time. After I had surgery in April last year and went through a long rehabilitation process, I unfortunately had a setback in October,” Axelsen told Badminton Europe.
“Since those tournaments, I have not been able to play or train at the level required. I have not been able to play or train due to pain, and that is why I am unfortunately forced to make this extremely difficult decision,” he said.
Axelsen on back pain
Axelsen, who spent 183 weeks as world number one, which is the third-longest in history, has explained that the pain has not gone away. Doctors also warned him that continuing could lead to another surgery, possibly more serious.
ALSO READ: 'Never pick a team on price tags': Ex-AUS captain wants this batter for Green
The Dane, who has also dealt with asthma during his career, won back-to-back Olympic gold medals in Tokyo and Paris. He also became world champion in 2017 and 2022 and played a key role in Denmark’s success at the European Championships.
“The decision has been made in consultation with the surgeon who operated on me last year, as well as the doctors I have been working with,” he said.
“They say that with the pain I am experiencing now, it could potentially require another surgery, and if that does not go well, even a more serious procedure might be necessary.
“In any case, it would mean I would not be able to compete at the level required. So, it is simply my body telling me to stop, and I have to follow the advice of my doctors,” he added.
Axelsen's last outing
His last tournament appearance came at the Denmark Open in October 2025. Even though the decision was tough, Axelsen said he is grateful for everything he achieved in his career.
ALSO READ: RCB vs LSG Live Streaming, Match Details, Playing XI, Head-to-Head in IPL
“Making this decision has been extremely difficult and at times felt unfair. At the same time, my body has done an incredible job over many years, and I see it as a huge privilege to have been able to play, train, and win so many major tournaments at the highest level.
“Very few people get to experience what I have experienced and meet so many amazing people. That's why I look back on my career with joy,” he said.
ADVERTISEMENT
