BIRMINGHAM, England – The badminton world is bracing for potentially tricky news regarding Viktor Axelsen, the two-time Olympic champion, as a persistent back injury continues to threaten his career. The 32-year-vintage Danish star has not competed since October of last year, and his medical team is now openly discussing the possibility that he may never return to the court.
The latest update comes from Dr. Morten Zebitz, a neurosurgeon specializing in spinal surgery and Axelsen’s long-time physician, who spoke with Danish broadcaster TV 2 Sport. Zebitz revealed that Axelsen has suffered a new disc herniation, compounding a pre-existing degenerative condition in his back. “It doesn’t look super positive,” Zebitz stated, offering a sobering assessment of the situation.
Axelsen initially signaled a require for a break following a disappointing early exit at the 2025 YONEX All England Open Badminton Championships in March. He underwent surgery approximately a month later, and after a six-month rehabilitation period, briefly returned to competition. Yet, that return proved short-lived. After just four tournaments, the 6’4” (1.94m) athlete was forced to pause again due to recurring pain.
The surgery itself was performed using a minimally invasive technique, a common approach in modern spinal procedures. Zebitz explained that while such procedures can address specific problems, they can also introduce new stresses on the body. “An operation solves a concrete problem, but at the same time, it can create new burdens for the body,” he said. The existing degenerative condition significantly increases the likelihood of future complications, creating a challenging prognosis.
This isn’t the first time Axelsen’s career has been derailed by back issues. The current setback represents a continuation of a long-standing battle with his spine, raising serious questions about his ability to withstand the physical demands of professional badminton. For fans unfamiliar with the sport, badminton at the elite level requires explosive movements, rapid changes in direction, and immense core strength – all of which place significant strain on the back.
Badminton expert Joachim Fischer, also speaking on TV 2 Sport, echoed Zebitz’s cautious outlook. Given the medical assessments, Fischer stated that it cannot be ruled out that Axelsen may not compete internationally again. This is a stark realization for a player widely considered one of the greatest in the sport’s history.
Despite the grim medical reports, Zebitz emphasized Axelsen’s unwavering commitment to his rehabilitation. He described working with athletes of Axelsen’s caliber as both rewarding and demanding, particularly when injuries jeopardize their careers. “The collaboration with athletes of this type is both enriching and challenging, especially in phases where injuries call into question a continuation of the sporting career,” Zebitz noted.
Axelsen, currently ranked as one of the top players in the world despite his absence, has achieved remarkable success throughout his career, including two Olympic gold medals. His absence is keenly felt within the badminton community, and fans worldwide are hoping for a positive update. However, as of now, the future remains uncertain.
The Danish star is currently not granting interviews, according to TV 2 Sport, focusing entirely on his recovery process. The situation highlights the inherent risks faced by elite athletes and the difficult decisions they must produce when confronted with potentially career-ending injuries.
What’s Next?
Axelsen’s medical team will continue to monitor his condition closely. No firm timeline has been established for a potential return to training or competition. Updates will be provided by TV 2 Sport as they become available. The badminton world awaits further news with bated breath, hoping for a recovery that allows one of its brightest stars to grace the court once more.
