Danish badminton superstar Viktor Axelsen is channelling the lessons from a challenging injury period into his quest for a triumphant return at the prestigious YONEX All England Open Badminton Championships.
Fighting Back to Full Fitness
The world-class athlete, a two-time champion at the Birmingham event, faced a significant setback in 2025 with a first-round exit followed by necessary back surgery. His road to recovery has been measured, competing in just five tournaments since March as he works to regain his legendary consistency. However, recent performances signal a promising return to the form that earned him two Olympic gold medals.
"I'm not feeling super right now," Axelsen admitted candidly. "I still have a few issues with my body, but I am really fighting all I can in order to get back into tip-top shape." He described his physical trials as a test, adding, "I am really hoping to get my body back on track, and hopefully I will be able to play some good badminton at the All England in March."
Pressure as a Privilege and Motivation
The 31-year-old has gained a new perspective on competition during his time away from the court. He cites a quote from Billie Jean King, "pressure is a privilege," as particularly resonant. "Now, when I have been out of the game because of back surgery and injuries, I know that the pressure is something that I miss a lot," he revealed.
For Axelsen, the primary drive comes from within. "The biggest pressure is from myself, I set extremely high standards, which is very good because it keeps me going," he explained. He views this internal demand not as a negative, but as a powerful motivator that fuels his passion for the sport.
A Storied History and a Formidable Rival
Axelsen's record at the All England is formidable. He clinched the title in 2020 and 2022, and was runner-up in the finals of 2019 and 2021. His first final appearance at Birmingham's Utilita Arena saw him face Japanese legend Kento Momota, then the top seed, who won a tough three-set battle.
Reflecting on his career, Axelsen pinpointed Momota, who retired in 2024, as his toughest opponent. "He beat me so many times, and I had a very hard time dealing with his play style," Axelsen said, noting their head-to-head record stood at 14-4 in Momota's favour. Those defeats, however, became a crucial part of his development. "The thing I am most proud of is that I manage to take all those defeats and turn them into extreme motivation," he stated.
Chasing Childhood Dreams in Birmingham
With a trophy cabinet that also includes two World Championship golds, three European titles, and a staggering 132 consecutive weeks as world number one, Axelsen remains fiercely ambitious. Securing a third All England crown is a key objective, deeply rooted in his childhood aspirations.
"As a kid, I always dreamt of playing at the All England, and then winning the All England," he shared. Having won it twice and contested four consecutive finals, the tournament holds profound meaning. He praised the amazing atmosphere and the special history of an event once considered the world's most important before the World Championships existed. "Besides the Olympics and the World Championships, the All England is the most important to win," he affirmed.
The quest for badminton history continues in Birmingham from 3rd to 8th March 2026. Tickets for the YONEX All England Open Badminton Championships are on sale now.
