Source:REUTERS/HAMAD I MOHAMMED
[Saba Sports News] On January 22, 2015, Danish star Viktor Axelsen first broke into the top ten of the BWF men’s singles rankings. Ten years later, he remains on this list. Although rankings are only one measure of a player’s excellence, Axelsen’s decade-long presence in the world’s top ten showcases his desire to be a top player, his discipline, and his ability to overcome challenges. During the 2025 India Badminton Open held in mid-January, Axelsen demonstrated these qualities. Despite not being in optimal physical condition, he found a way to win, claiming his first title of 2025. Recently, Axelsen published a lengthy post on Facebook discussing the challenges he has faced over the years and the secrets to his success. He shared that the past ten years have been filled with ups and downs. Sometimes everything goes smoothly and according to plan; other times, he has struggled with his performance and motivation. Axelsen revealed that he has dealt with minor injuries and serious ones that required surgery, faced challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, experienced the joys of becoming a father, moved his family to a new country, and initiated a new training regimen with a new coach. He often reflects on why he has achieved what he has today, attributing it to relentless training and making the most of each day; focusing on his own path rather than comparing himself to others, while also being open to feedback. Accepting constructive criticism is vital in a player’s growth process.