Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen (PTI Photo) NEW DELHI: The badminton world was left stunned on Wednesday when Denmark’s two-time Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen announced his retirement at the age of 32, citing persistent back problems that make it impossible to “compete and train at the highest level”. The decision brings the curtain down on one of the most dominant and transformative careers in modern badminton and marks the end of an era defined by excellence, consistency and global influence.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SIGN UP NOW!Axelsen, who underwent back surgery in April last year, admitted it was “incredibly difficult” to accept the situation but acknowledged his body could no longer keep up with the demands of top sport. His retirement comes after a glittering career that included Olympic gold medals at Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024 along with two world titles and a bronze at the Rio 2016 Games. At 6ft 4in, Axelsen redefined physicality in badminton, combining reach, power and accuracy to dominate the men’s singles circuit.His achievements went beyond medals. Axelsen has spent more than 100 consecutive weeks as world number one, a feat surpassed only by Malaysian legend Lee Chong Wei. He also became the first non-Asian Olympic men’s singles champion since 1996 and later emulated his idol Lin Dan by winning Olympic gold. Off the field, his ability to connect with fans – especially in Mandarin-speaking China – has made him one of the sport’s most beloved global ambassadors.
Viktor Axelsen and Lakshya Sen (PTI Photo)
India’s Lakshya Sen led the tributes, calling Axelsen “one of the best to ever play the game”. Reflecting on their journey, Sen recalled training with the Dane in Dubai and facing him on some of the sport’s biggest stages, including the All England Open and the Paris Olympics. “What really sets you apart is not just the champion you are, it’s the person you are,” Sen wrote, highlighting Axelsen’s humility and character beyond his dominance on the court.Former India coach Vimal Kumar described the retirement as a “significant loss to the sport” and praised Axelsen’s professionalism and lasting impact. As badminton now enters a transition phase, Axelsen leaves behind a record-breaking legacy – one built on discipline, innovation and a lasting influence on future generations.
