Viktor Axelsen has chosen to withdraw from the season finals in China, which has sparked speculation. According to Axelsen, the cancellation is due to an injury to his left foot, but the decision is not without consequences.
As a world-class player, participation in the season finals is mandatory and absence may result in a fine.
Still, Axelsen seems calm about the prospect of a financial penalty.
On X, he has shared his frustration with the procedure followed by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) when players withdraw due to injuries.
Axelsen states that the decision to stand down has been made to prioritize his health, but the BWF has demanded documentation of his injury and reminds of the rules for qualified players.
The 30-year-old Dane, who in his career has earned many millions of kroner from his performances, has nevertheless chosen to take a clear stand against the association.
BWF’s demands are met with resistance
In a published email from BWF, the association emphasizes that they understand Axelsen’s situation, but at the same time they emphasize that the rules must be followed.
This has caused Axelsen to react sharply. According to Ekstra Bladet, Axelsen points out that he has sent documentation to the association on several occasions when he has previously been injured or ill, but has been fined anyway.
He writes bluntly: “Just send me the fine,” showing growing dissatisfaction with the BWF’s handling of injuries among top players.
His criticism was further sharpened with reference to a case involving American player Beiwen Zhang, which Axelsen believes reveals the BWF’s double standards.
Zhang has previously expressed frustration with how the federation handles injuries and player health in general.
I have absolutely no need to “beef” with BWF, but I’m so tired of the disconnect between players and BWF.
Everything needs to go through the Federation, but I’m an individual athlete with my own team, making my own decisions!
Some players are happy to be in the federation.…
A battle of principle for the players
Axelsen has not played a competitive game since the defeat to Anders Antonsen in November, but his decision to withdraw from the season finale marks more than just a personal injury break.
It is also a call for better conditions for the players.
Axelsen’s public criticism focuses on a larger problem in sport, where rules often collide with the players’ health.
Whether BWF will take his points into account is still uncertain, but Axelsen’s clear message leaves no doubt:
He will not compromise on his health priorities – not even if it costs him money.
