Viktor Axelsen Retires from Badminton Due to Back Injuries

Viktor Axelsen, the 32-year-old Danish badminton star and double Olympic gold medalist, announced his retirement from professional competition on Wednesday, ending a career marked by dominance in men's singles due to persistent back injuries that have limited his ability to train and play at an elite level.

Axelsen underwent endoscopic back surgery in April 2025 following years of struggles with the injury, which he has managed alongside asthma throughout his career. After a lengthy rehabilitation, he experienced a significant setback in October 2025 during the Denmark Open, his last competitive appearance. The resulting nerve pain has prevented even basic on-court training, despite attempts with injections, new treatments, and adjusted methods. In consultation with his surgeon and medical team, Axelsen decided to step away to prioritize long-term health, as continuing could necessitate another surgery with risks of more severe complications.

"Doctors have warned that the current pain levels could lead to further procedures, and in any case, I would not be able to compete at the required level," Axelsen told Badminton Europe. "It is simply my body telling me to stop, and I have...