Popular: Denmark’s two-time Olympic Games champion Viktor Axelsen having a wefie with fans during the Malaysian Masters. Viktor (below) has given tips on how to build a healthy sports career.
PETALING JAYA: Looking to build a healthy career? Just ask Viktor Axelsen.
Two-time Olympic Games champion recently shared a video on his YouTube channel offering five essential tips for young athletes on how to build a healthy career.
Axelsen is well-qualified to offer this advice as he has held the top spot in world rankings for 132 weeks since 2022, skilfully balancing his sports career with breaks to recover from injuries and quality time with family.
Recently, Axelsen slipped to world No. 2 after China’s Shi Yuqi claimed back-to-back titles in the Singapore and Indonesia Opens, while he had to withdraw from the Indonesia stint due to an ankle injury.
But despite the ranking shift, Axelsen affirmed his status among the elite by defending his Olympic title in Paris.
Axelsen’s first tip? Avoid excessive comparisons with others, instead use their achievements as a source of inspiration.
“People often say, ‘when Viktor was 18, he had already won this or that’, but everyone’s path is different,” said Axelsen.
“Don’t get discouraged by comparing yourself to others, even peers at your own age.
“If others are further ahead, don’t let that make you think that you’re not good enough as it can really hinder your ability to keep growing.
“Instead, look at their career for inspiration and remind yourself if they can do it, so can you.
“Maybe your path takes longer, but that’s okay.
“Don’t be discouraged, avoid too much comparison, go at your own pace – and everything will fall into place.”
Next, Axelsen emphasised the importance of working hard while enjoying the process.
“I often emphasise to younger players that while hard work during practice and when the coach is giving instructions is essential, it is equally important to have fun,” said Axelsen.
“Training requires focus and repetition, and it is important to take those sessions seriously, but remember to have fun while doing it.
“I really do believe that in the long run, if a young athlete wants to stay in the sport and do very well, they need to have the heart with them and enjoy what they’re doing.
“I think in order to enjoy what they are doing, they need to have fun while doing it.”
Axelsen’s third tip – master the basics before moving to advance techniques.
“I think many athletes tend to overlook the importance of building a strong foundation in order to get really good at something,” said Axelsen.
“I often receive questions about my exercises and recovery routines, and my answer is always the same don’t overcomplicate things too soon.
“Focus on mastering your basic attacking shots, defence, stance and footwork.
“Fluid footwork and a solid base are crucial for strong performance in rallies.
“In the gym, avoid getting sidetracked by trendy exercises or methods you find online, but concentrate on developing stability and strength in the fundamentals.
“When you reach my level, you can start to look at different tweaks to your training, sleeping and recovery routines.
“Those seemingly simple and sometimes boring aspects are the very foundation on which you’ll build your future success.”
Respect for oneself and others was Axelsen’s fourth tip.
“I know I can’t win alone, so I have good coaches, friends, sparring partners and a great family, who have supported me no matter how well I’ve been doing.
“I always remember to treat people with respect no matter if they are competitors or friends who have lower skill level, and even if I don’t always agree with my coach.
“Always have respect, listen attentively and be open to constructive criticism, no matter what level you’re at.
“Respecting your opponents and those around you is very important, regardless of where you are in life, so always show respect and remain humble.”
Finally, Axelsen encouraged young players to dream big but focus on small, process-oriented goals.
“You can have big dreams, and you should have the self-confidence to say them out loud,” said Axelsen.
“However, it is essential to remain humble and understand that achieving those dreams involves focusing on many small details.
“Establishing small, process-oriented goals – like improving your lifting technique or mastering close-net shots – should be your focus in your daily training as you work towards your ultimate goal.
“Don’t just say ‘I want to win the World Championships or Indonesian Open those are great dreams to have, but remember that the journey will come with many ups and downs.
“When you reach a point where you feel stuck, just focus on the process, keep working hard and recognise that there’s much to learn and discover along the way.
“Prioritising the process, along with setting both result and process-oriented goals, is crucial for the development of young athletes.”
