Denmark’s celebrated badminton star Viktor Axelsen has announced his retirement from the sport, citing persistent injury issues that have taken a toll on his body.
The Chenab Times has learned that the two-time Olympic and world champion, who has been sidelined since October last year with a recurring back problem, made the difficult decision after consulting with his medical team. Axelsen, 32, underwent surgery for his back in April last year, but experienced a setback in October, leading to chronic pain that has prevented him from training and competing at the elite level.
“As most people know, I have been struggling with my back for quite some time,” Axelsen stated in comments shared with ‘Badminton Europe’. “After I had surgery in April last year and went through a long rehabilitation process, I unfortunately had a setback in October.”
The Danish shuttler, who has also managed asthma throughout his career, further elaborated on the severity of his condition. “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 added.
Axelsen’s illustrious career saw him hold the world number one ranking for an impressive 183 weeks, the third longest duration in badminton history. He secured consecutive gold medals at the Tokyo and Paris Olympics and claimed two World Championship titles in 2017 and 2022. He was also an integral part of six gold-winning Danish teams in the European Championships.
The decision to retire was made in consultation with the surgeon who operated on him and his attending doctors. They advised him that continuing to play with his current level of pain could necessitate further surgery, potentially a more serious procedure, which would ultimately preclude him from competing at the highest level.
“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,” Axelsen explained. “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.” His last competitive appearance was at the Denmark Open in October 2025.
Despite the challenging circumstances of his departure from professional badminton, Axelsen expressed gratitude and satisfaction looking back at his career. “Making this decision has been extremely difficult and at times felt unfair,” he reflected. “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.”
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