BEIJING, April 15 (Xinhua) -- Danish badminton player Viktor Axelsen has announced his retirement from professional badminton at the age of 32, citing a persistent back injury.
"Today is not an easy day for me..." the two-time Olympic champion wrote on social media, describing his struggle with the lingering injury. "After undergoing endoscopic surgery, multiple injections, new training methods, treatments, and basically trying everything to become pain-free for a long time now, I have been advised to focus on my long-term health."
Axelsen's career was marked by a series of major achievements that cemented his status as one of badminton's leading players. He spent a total of 183 weeks as the BWF men's singles world No. 1, winning two Olympic gold medals, two World Championship titles and three European Championship crowns, in addition to helping Denmark win the Thomas Cup.
Reflecting on his journey in his social media post, the badminton star also expressed gratitude and pride. "Since the day I first picked up a racket, I knew my dream was to become the best in the world. I have given everything to this sport in pursuit of that goal every single day, every session, every match."
"It has never just been a career to me. It has been my life and I have left no stone unturned," he continued.
Axelsen said retiring from professional badminton does not mean leaving the sport entirely. "While this is a goodbye to Viktor Axelsen the badminton player, I am not saying goodbye to the sport infinitely. I will always be around one way or the other."
"I gave everything to badminton and badminton gave me everything back," he added.
While his future role has yet to be announced, he said he hopes to remain involved, possibly in coaching, promotion or youth development. ■
