Ep 13: Balancing Identity and Injury in Sports - Why Viktor Axelsen can't play the 2025 World Champs
Description
In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen discuss Viktor's rehabilitation journey after injury, the mental challenges of managing identity while not competing, and the decision-making process regarding his participation in the upcoming 2025 BWF World Championships. They also delve into new badminton rules, the launch of Viktor's new racket line, and the financial aspects of being a professional badminton player. The conversation wraps up with predictions for the World Championships and insights on how to grow the sport of badminton.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter
02:25 Rehabilitation Journey and Progress
07:51 Managing Identity During Injury
10:58 Mental Challenges and Routine Maintenance
16:19 Decision-Making Process for Withdrawal
21:52 Future Plans and Sponsorship Dynamics
24:32 Adapting to Change in Badminton
24:58 The Introduction of Shot Clocks
26:36 Umpiring Challenges with New Rules
28:13 Trialling New Match Formats
30:00 Excitement for the VA Range Launch
32:38 Engaging the Next Generation of Players
34:30 The Financial Landscape of Badminton
36:55 The Future of Badminton and Its Growth
39:24 The Best Viewing Angles for Badminton
41:40 Predictions for the World Championships
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Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ
Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg
CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/
Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/