Kunshan: Denmark’s shuttlers will be looking to stamp their authority on the badminton events at the 2016 Summer Olympics after their historic Thomas Cup victory on Sunday.
Denmark’s World No. 4 men’s shuttler, Viktor Axelsen, has expressed strong interest in his shot at Olympic glory. “I am confident the Denmark players will prove themselves in the Olympics,” said Axelsen.
“I believe I can go far in the Olympics because if you don’t believe in yourself then it won’t happen,” added Axelsen.
Li Yongbo Names Danish Threats
Axelsen’s Thomas Cup performance has attracted attention from China’s Chief Badminton coach, Li Yongbo. Li has named Axelsen and his team-mate Jan O Jorgensen as major threats to China’s men’s singles players at the Olympics this summer.
“Now, the competition in Rio is fierce because many players could win the Olympics,” said Li.
Responding to Li’s comment, Axelsen said, “I guess I might have a good chance if Li Yongbo went out there to say something about me.”
Hoyer Larsen Backs Axelsen’s Rise
The current President of the Badminton World Federation and the 1996 Atlanta Olympic badminton champion, Poul-Erik Hoyer Larsen, predicted Axelsen could emerge as a badminton superstar in the near future.
“Axelsen has potential to be the World No. 1 player especially when Lin Dan and Lee Chong Wei ease into retirement by gradually cutting back from their participation in tournaments after the Olympics.”