Take a moment to enjoy part four of this five-part series as Viktor provides an exclusive insight into the rituals that matter most to Viktor when it comes to game day. 

Gain a snapshot into the daily routine of Olympic Gold medalist and HSBC Global Ambassador, Viktor Axelsen, as he shares a behind-the-scenes look at his own life and how he prepares to perform at his best. 

When it comes to how an athlete prepares on a match day, I know the first thing many people wonder is about any funny or strange superstitions or behaviour! 

Many athletes do have rituals or superstitions, but I find it can be quite dangerous if you have too many, because there will be times when you can’t do them and then it affects you. 

OK… I do have one. The only thing for me is to get my match day clothing ready the day before: tracksuit, shorts, t-shirt, underpants and socks – and always in the same order! 

Otherwise, my routine is quite straightforward but varies depending on the time of day I’m playing. I always want to have a bit of exercise, at least seven hours before I play. I usually also have treatment after a match but if it’s a late finish, I will prioritise my sleep and get to bed as quickly as possible. 

Another thing that is always a part of a typical match day (apart from the last couple of years with COVID): the crowd. The crowd plays a huge role on match day, and I love the noise. I think badminton needs this – a lot of screaming people and emotional fans – even if they are cheering for the opponent. 

The most important thing for me is to adapt to my surroundings. In the past, I got frustrated if I felt calm when I wanted to be more energised. But even before the Olympic final, I was really calm and that didn’t bother me. Now, I just take it easy and let my body feel however it wants to feel. 

Then, when I’m out on court and I feel like I need to pump myself up a bit more, that’s when you’ll see me raise my fist and get more emotional! 

Who are the people that make it all worthwhile for Viktor Axelsen? Look out for the final segment of Viktor’s five-part series, where he shares just how important family is to him and how much his life has changed since the arrival of his daughter.