A mature Axelsen believes 'more beautiful things' coming his way

ODENSE (Denmark): As a child, Viktor Axelsen loved reading the “Ugly Duckling” fairy tale.

The 22-year-old feels that the book, written by the famous Hans Christian Andersen, best describes his badminton career.

From a junior player from the small-town of Odense, he has blossomed into an Olympic Games bronze medallist – and ready to rule the world of badminton.

The 2011 world junior champion believes that “more beautiful things” are coming his way.

“I was born in Odense, the same town where my favourite children’s book author Hans was born. I have read the ugly duckling story so many times,” said Axelsen during a visit to Andersen’s small quaint house, now one of the most visited museums in Denmark.

“Like the duckling which turned into a beautiful swan ... I believe that I too have grown into a more mature player now.

“My life has been different since beating China’s Lin Dan for the bronze in the Rio Olympics. But it’s been quite stressful too ... in a good way.

“Now everyone knows who Viktor Axelsen is. People back at home have been supportive and that’s important to me.”

For winning the Olympic bronze, Axelsen received only 50,000 Danish kroner (RM30,800) from the government.

“I heard that in Malaysia, Indonesia and India, medallists received handsome rewards ... and even houses and cars.

“It isn’t the same in Denmark. I hope more sponsors will come forward because of the Olympic bronze, but I’m not complaining about what I have received so far.”

On his chances in the ongoing Denmark Open, second seed Axelsen remains hopeful of doing well at his birthplace.

“I came back (from his training base in Copenhagen) a week earlier. I’ve had good rest and I hope to play at a high level,” said Axelsen, who is tipped to meet top seed Lee Chong Wei in the final.

“Chong Wei has been up there for many years. I have so much respect for him. But there are a few matches to go before the final and I want focus on those first.”

In the first round, Axelsen takes on Jeon Hyeok-jin of South Korea while Chong Wei faces Wei Nan of Hong Kong.

Axelsen has lost to Chong Wei in all their previous nine meetings.