Viktor Axelsen, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time world champion in badminton, has officially announced his retirement due to ongoing back issues. The 32-year-old athlete expressed his reluctance to step away from the sport, stating that he is compelled to make this difficult choice because nerve pain has hindered his ability to engage in even fundamental training exercises.

During his retirement announcement on The Average Not Average Podcast, Axelsen remarked, “Honestly, this isn’t a decision I’m making on my own. It’s my body that’s dictating this outcome, and that’s what makes it particularly challenging. I don’t want to retire; I’m simply unable to train as necessary. It’s incredibly hard to accept that I can’t have a proper farewell or one last performance. Yet, that seems to be the narrative of my life now.”

In a detailed discussion with Badminton Europe, Axelsen elaborated on his injury struggles and rehabilitation journey. “As many are aware, I’ve been facing back problems for quite a while. Following my surgery in April of last year and a lengthy recovery period, I regrettably encountered a setback in October. Since that time, I have been unable to compete or train at the level I need due to persistent pain, which has led to this heart-wrenching decision,” he explained to Badminton Europe.

Axelsen further clarified that his retirement decision was made in collaboration with the surgeon who performed his operation last year, along with the medical professionals he has been consulting. “Given the current pain I’m experiencing, my doctors have indicated that I might need another surgery, and should that not yield positive results, a more invasive procedure could be required. Regardless, this would preclude me from competing at the necessary level. Ultimately, it’s my body signaling that it’s time to stop, and I must heed my doctors’ advice,” Axelsen concluded.