GEORGE TOWN, May 27 — Former world number one and two-time Olympic badminton champion Viktor Axelsen made his first public appearance in Malaysia by meeting fans in Penang on Tuesday since announcing his retirement from professional badminton last month.
The appearance formed part of a regional engagement series organised by Monitor ERP and marked his transition from the professional circuit into a broader role as a global brand ambassador and partner.
In a statement issued by Monitor ERP, Axelsen said years of competing at the highest level had taught him discipline and resilience beyond sport and that he remained grateful despite stepping away from competition to prioritise his long-term health.
“Since I first picked up a racket, my dream was to become the best in the world. Competing on the biggest stages has taught me lessons about discipline and resilience that go far beyond sport,” he said.
Held under the theme “Celebrating the Legacy of Viktor Axelsen”, the programme began with a morning session at Monitor ERP’s headquarters in Tanjong Tokong before continuing with interactive activities at the MBPP Relau Sport Complex.
Participants joined precision shot challenges while children took part in on-court activities with the Danish star. Fans also attended a meet-and-greet session, participated in a live question-and-answer segment and conveyed messages of appreciation and well wishes.
Meanwhile, Monitor ERP SEA chief executive officer Daniel Häggmark said Penang was selected as the second destination of the regional series after Jakarta and described Axelsen’s connection with supporters and partners in Southeast Asia as remaining strong despite his retirement from competition.
Axelsen announced his retirement on April 15 following recurring back injuries, ending one of badminton’s most decorated modern careers.
Besides winning Olympic gold at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics and Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, the 32-year-old captured world titles in 2017 and 2022 and helped Denmark secure its only Thomas Cup crown in 2016.
