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Danish Olympic champion Axelsen calls time on career
- On Wednesday, Denmark's Viktor Axelsen announced his retirement from badminton at 32, citing persistent back injuries that prevented him from competing at the highest level. The two-time Olympic champion confirmed the decision after consulting with medical experts.
- Following surgery last year and a setback in October, Axelsen explained he could no longer continue competing. "The decision has been made in consultation with the surgeon," he said, noting potential for more serious procedures if he played on.
- Axelsen retires as a two-time Olympic champion, having won gold at the Tokyo Games in 2021 and Paris Games in 2024. He also claimed world titles in 2017 and 2022, finishing with 572 match victories across his career.
- The Badminton World Federation paid tribute on Instagram, while news of his retirement sparked significant reaction on Weibo on Wednesday. Axelsen said he had "accomplished everything I once dreamed of, and more" during his storied career.
- Standing 194cm, Axelsen spent 183 weeks as the world's top-ranked player, the third-longest reign in history. His dominance trails only Malaysia's Lee Chong Wei and China's Lin Dan, cementing his legacy as a transformative force in men's singles.
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32 Articles
32 Articles
Viktor Axelsen has marched through badminton with lightning speed. It is clear from the comments after his career ended that he has left a lasting impression that extends beyond the racket sport.
·Copenhagen, Denmark
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Former world number 1, the Danishman announced his retirement on social media this Wednesday.
·Paris, France
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Two-time Olympic Champion Viktor Axelsen Announces Retirement from Professional Badminton
Get latest articles and stories on Sports at LatestLY. Viktor Axelsen has announced his retirement from professional badminton at the age of 32 on Wednesday. Axelsen explained ongoing physical limitations following back surgery in April 2025 as the reason for hanging up his boots. Sports News | Two-time Olympic Champion Viktor Axelsen Announces Retirement from Professional Badminton.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources32
Leaning Left5Leaning Right8Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution40% Right
Bias Distribution
- 40% of the sources lean Right
40% Right
L 25%
C 35%
R 40%
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