The Danish player concluded his career as one of the most successful men's singles shuttlers in history. He won Olympic gold at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024, as well as a bronze medal at Rio 2016. Additionally, Axelsen secured World Championship titles in 2017 and 2022, according to the Badminton World Federation (BWF) website.

Axelsen described the decision as difficult, explaining that recurring back problems have prevented him from continuing to train and compete at the highest level. He stated, “Today is not an easy day for me. Due to my recurrent back issues, I am no longer able to compete and train at the highest level. Accepting this situation has been incredibly difficult. But I have now reached a point where my body won’t allow me to continue.”

Reflecting on his career, he said, “Since the day I picked up a racket, I knew my dream was to become the best in the world. I have given everything to this sport. It has never been just a career to me. It has been my life and I have left no stone unturned.”

Axelsen added that he has achieved all he once dreamed of and more, and that the hardest part about retiring is not the competition itself but the journey, daily routine, and relationships built along the way. “I have accomplished everything I once dreamed of, and more. What makes it hardest to say goodbye is not the competition itself, but everything around it. The journey, the daily grind, the people,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, “Words cannot describe how thankful I am for all of you. Your support from all around the world means more than you know.”

Although retiring from professional play, Axelsen emphasised he will remain involved in badminton. “While this is 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.