Danish badminton superstar Viktor Axelsen has officially announced his retirement from professional badminton at the age of 32, bringing an end to one of the most decorated careers in the sport after a prolonged struggle with a chronic back injury.
The former world number one revealed that recurring back problems — despite undergoing surgery and numerous medical treatments — ultimately forced him to step away from the game he described as his life.
In an emotional farewell message, Axelsen admitted that he had exhausted every possible option to return to the court but could no longer maintain the level required to compete at the highest standard.
“After repeated back injuries, from arthroscopic surgery to countless injections and treatments, I tried every possible way to come back,” Axelsen explained.
“But in the end, I can no longer push myself to train or compete at the highest level.”
Medical experts advised the Dane to make a crucial decision between continuing his athletic career or prioritising his long-term health — a reality he acknowledged was incredibly difficult to accept.
“My body has given its final signal. It can’t keep competing anymore.”
For Axelsen, badminton was never just a profession — it was a lifelong passion.
“Badminton has been my life. I gave everything to this sport and I have no regrets,” he said.
“Looking back, I fulfilled my first dream and achieved far more than I ever imagined. I feel truly proud.”
Throughout his career, Axelsen competed against the world’s best players on the biggest stages, earning global respect for his discipline, technical excellence, and dominance in the men’s singles category.
The Danish star also expressed heartfelt gratitude to coaches, training partners, and rivals who helped shape his journey in elite badminton.
“I want to sincerely thank my coaches, sparring partners, and competitors. Their discipline, relentless training, and constant challenges shaped me into who I am today.
“To fight alongside or against you at the highest level of the sport has been the greatest honour of my career.”
He added that the memories created while chasing titles and representing his country will stay with him for the rest of his life.
Axelsen leaves the sport as one of badminton’s most successful athletes of the modern era, with an extraordinary list of achievements across global competitions including the Olympic Games, the BWF World Championships, and the Thomas Cup.
Axelsen’s retirement marks the end of a dominant era in men’s singles badminton, where his powerful attacking style, tactical intelligence, and consistency made him one of the sport’s defining figures.
Credit Photo ; BERNAMA
