New Delhi, April 15 (NationPress) Two-time Olympic gold medalist and renowned Danish badminton player Viktor Axelsen has officially declared his retirement from competitive badminton at the age of 32 due to a persistent back injury.

Axelsen, a distinguished two-time world champion, three-time European champion, and Thomas Cup victor, has a remarkable legacy as a former world number one, boasting one of the most comprehensive records in men's singles badminton history. Unfortunately, he has been battling a severe back injury for the last two years.

In explaining his retirement, Axelsen remarked that it has become physically impossible for him to continue competing due to ongoing pain. "As most people are aware, I've been dealing with back issues for quite a while. After undergoing surgery in April last year and going through an extensive rehabilitation period, I faced a setback in October. Since then, I have been unable to compete or train at the necessary level. The pain has made it impossible to continue, which is why I have reluctantly made this tough decision," he stated in an interview with Badminton Europe.

Axelsen's career began with a historic victory at the 2010 BWF World Junior Championships, making him the first European to achieve this feat. He made his senior debut that same year, clinching victory at the Cyprus International. His impressive journey continued with a notable triumph at the Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold in 2014, as well as earning two European Championships bronze medals and securing his first bronze at the BWF World Championships in 2014. In 2016, he became the first European player to win the men's singles title at the BWF World Superseries Finals.

He made his Olympic debut at Rio 2016, where he won a bronze medal by defeating two-time Olympic champion Lin Dan. The pinnacle of Axelsen's career was achieved when he claimed the men's singles gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. He further solidified his legacy by capturing a second world title in 2022 during a triumphant return to Tokyo and successfully defending his Olympic gold at Paris 2024, confirming his status as a badminton icon.

Axelsen elaborated on the ongoing challenges he faced, noting that the risk of further surgery ultimately influenced his decision. “The choice was made in consultation with the surgeon who performed my operation last year and the medical professionals I have been collaborating with. They indicated that the current pain could necessitate another surgery, and if complications arise, a more serious procedure might be needed. Regardless, it would prevent me from competing at an elite level, so it’s my body signaling to stop, and I must heed my doctors' advice,” he added.

With achievements at the Olympics, World Championships, and European Championships, Axelsen has established himself as one of the most celebrated athletes in badminton history. Notably, in October 2023, he reached a milestone of 100 consecutive weeks as the top-ranked player in the men's singles category.

Reflecting on his illustrious career, Axelsen shared, "Making this choice has been incredibly challenging and at times felt unjust. Nonetheless, my body has performed remarkably over the years, and I consider it a tremendous privilege to have played, trained, and triumphed in numerous major tournaments at such an elite level. Very few get to enjoy what I have and connect with so many extraordinary individuals. That’s why I look back on my career with immense gratitude."