In an exclusive interview with Sport Scene’s Zhu Mandan, Badminton World Federation (BWF) President Poul-Erik Høyer Larsen shared his reflections on a remarkable year for badminton and his optimistic vision for the sport’s future.
The Danish badminton icon, renowned for making history in 1996 as the first non-Asian athlete to win an Olympic badminton title, expressed immense pride in his compatriot Viktor Axelsen’s triumphant defense of his title in Paris. “Seeing Viktor stand atop the podium once again was a proud moment for Denmark and for badminton,” Høyer Larsen remarked. “It represents the strength of our tradition and the dedication of our athletes.”
Høyer Larsen emphasized that the 2024 Paris Olympics showcased the pinnacle of badminton performance, highlighting not only established stars but also heralding the rise of emerging talents. “The level of competition we witnessed in Paris was exceptional,” he noted. “It’s inspiring to see young athletes stepping onto the global stage, bringing new energy and passion to the sport.”
Discussing the future of badminton, the 59-year-old president spoke passionately about the sport’s growth potential. He underscored the significant role of social media in connecting fans and players worldwide. “Social media has become a powerful tool for us,” he said. “It allows us to engage with audiences in ways we couldn’t before, fostering a global community of badminton enthusiasts.”
Høyer Larsen also took the opportunity to commend Chen Long, the 2024 Hall of Fame inductee, for his outstanding contributions to badminton. “Chen Long’s achievements have been instrumental in inspiring future generations,” he acknowledged. “His dedication and success serve as a beacon for young players everywhere.”
As he looks ahead to 2024 and beyond, Høyer Larsen envisions a bright future for badminton. “I’m excited about what lies ahead,” he concluded. “With the talent we have and the support of a growing fan base, the future of badminton is truly promising.”
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Exclusive: BWF President reflects on 2024 and sport's bright future
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