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Journalism of Courage
Paris Olympic gold medallist Viktor Axelsen said he had no ‘beef’ with the Badminton World Federation, but then proceeded to list out a host of grievances against the sport’s world body, accusing them of not listening to players and not taking mental health seriously.
“I have absolutely no need to “beef” with BWF, but I’m so tired of the disconnect between players and BWF. Everything needs to go through the Federation, but I’m an individual athlete with my own team, making my own decisions! Some players are happy to be in the federation. That’s great, but we are some athletes who are independent!
Axelsen then spoke about the world body’s reluctance to provide breaks or leeways to its ‘Top committed players’, who might be struggling financially or mentally.
“What has especially upset me recently is the handling of Beiwen Zhang’s case. She is struggling mentally and financially, but she has no choice but to continue playing because “mental health” is not a good enough reason to avoid the obligations for “Top Committed Players.
“If we as a sport don’t take mental health seriously, then where are we heading? I appreciate what the work Athlete Committee is doing, but I’m very sorry, but we have absolutely no power to change anything as the situation is now, and the only way BWF will listen is that we as players speak up.
Axelsen also said that the reason he was speaking out publicly was due to the power the federations held and how players’ will was being pushed aside by the powers to be.
“Many players are scared to talk publicly, which is understandable, given the power Federations have. But I have a responsibility. For current players and future generations. And I’m not going to not speak my mind!!! And also YOU, the fans. Deserve to know what is going on,” wrote Axelsen. “Without the support from all you around the world, we are nothing, and it’s time we all acknowledge this. We need to work together, and we as players need to be heard. BWF has many good things to do to grow our sport, but we could do so much better together.”
