Huelva: World No. 1 men’s singles player Viktor Axelsen who has not play for the last three months due to an ankle surgery, has returned to competitive action and was able to enter the second round of the 2018 European Championships.
On Wednesday, Viktor Axelsen stepped on the badminton court for the first time in three months, outlasting Adam Mendrek of Czech Republic 21-11, 21-8 to advance to the European Championships second round.
“I’m very happy to be back and playing in a tournament again. That really gives me a feeling of real competition instead of just sparring with teammates during training,” said Axelsen.
In addition to the victory on Wednesday, most importantly, it also allowed Axelsen to assess the condition of his ankle.
“I did not feel anything strange on my feet, I’ve been strengthening my ankle muscle during training. The victory on Wednesday really boosted my confident and I am looking forward to the next match,” added Axelsen.
“I’m a badminton player, so it’s not so cool when you cannot play badminton and have to sit on the sideline. So, it’s good to be back, and I feel better when I can run around the court and hit some shuttlecocks. So, I’m really happy to be back and really enjoying it!”
Axelsen will play World no. 68 Sam Parsons of England on Thursday.
“I do not know him, but I saw him play a little with his team. He played quite well. I do not underestimate anyone in tournament like this, because nowadays, everybody wants to beat me.”
Viktor Axelsen who won the European Championship in 2016 is eyeing for his second European champion on Sunday.
