Axelsen Refuses to Compare Himself with Lin Dan: He Is the Best Ever, I Can Get Stronger

Jayce September 6, 2024 2 0

The 2022 Badminton World Championships have concluded, and Viktor Axelsen swept past Thai player Kunlavut Vitidsarn in straight sets. In an interview reported by Japanese media, Axelsen refused to compare himself to Lin Dan, emphasizing that he still has room for improvement and aims to become a better player.

Axelsen reached the pinnacle of invincibility this season, extending his terrifying form to the World Championships, where he did not drop a single set to win the men’s singles title. This Tokyo Olympic gold medalist secured his second World Championship title, the first being in 2017.

Japanese media praised Axelsen, suggesting that the Danish ace might match Lin Dan’s achievement of winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals. “At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Axelsen will aim to equal Lin Dan’s two consecutive Olympic gold medals. However, Lin Dan also won five World Championship titles during his illustrious career.”

Many fans compare the dominant Axelsen of this era to Lin Dan, but Axelsen stated in an interview that he considers Lin Dan the greatest player of all time and refuses to compare himself to Lin Dan. He expressed his desire to become an even better player.

“I will strive to get stronger and cherish every day, working hard to improve. I believe there is still room for growth. Yes, there is still a long way to go, so I think I can become a better player. That is my ultimate goal.”

Whether Axelsen can reach Lin Dan’s level is still uncertain, but he was indeed unstoppable in this World Championships. Despite his dominance, Axelsen admitted in a post-match interview that he felt immense pressure. “I didn’t sleep well the night before the final, only five or six hours. There was pressure, and winning the championship was a huge relief.”

Regarding winning his second World Championship title, Axelsen said, “It feels as cool as the first time. I am extremely happy and excited. I am currently in a joyous atmosphere, feeling very thrilled.”

It is worth mentioning that Danish media sport.tv2’s commentator was also astonished by Axelsen’s easy victory. “We are amazed by the level Axelsen displayed. The start of the match looked like a slaughter. This is a level that Danish badminton has never reached before. Axelsen winning the Olympic and World Championship titles without dropping a single set in the World Championships—what more can we say?”