It takes a lot to balance your career and family, but Danish badminton player Viktor Axelsen has managed it. Not only is he a proud champion of the Indonesia Open 2021, he’s also a very proud dad!
On 28th November, Viktor secured the men’s singles title for the Indonesia Open after he beat out Singapore’s Loh Kean Yew (骆建佑). His elation at winning was added to when his daughter, Vega Rohde Axelsen accompanied him to get his prize.
This is the first time Viktor has won the Indonesia Open. It wasn’t an easy victory; the hour-long battle for the title was intense. He won the first game 21-13 but lost the second to Loh with 9-21. However, he managed to secure a win in the third and final game with 21-13.
There’s no hard feelings between the duo however. As Viktor commented in on social media afterwards: “Loh is not only a great badminton player, but also such a great guy outside the court.” The Danish player made sure to thank Loh for the match and congratulate him for coming so far. “We will continue to help each other and make progress together!” he declared.
Viktor expressed his joy at having his family by his side while he competed in the tournament, but regretted that the fans could not be there in person. “I hope to see you again soon. Thank you for your support towards me and love to VV (Vega)!” he told them.
With Viktor’s win for the Indonesia Open secured, he’s ready to celebrate with his wife and daughter. The Danish player did mention however that he may spend time changing diapers as well. “I’m lacking behind on my daddy duties at the moment,” he joked. However, he certainly takes his role as a father seriously as he added: “I am a professional player, and at the same time, I am also (Vega’s) father.”
Fans cooed upon seeing Viktor’s daughter at the award giving ceremony. Not only did she enjoy being with her dad, Loh looked delighted to see her as well. The two players spent less time on the awards in their hands and paid more attention to the adorable child, not that we can blame them.
The trio certainly looked like they were enjoying themselves, with Loh even playing gently with Vega. It must have been fun for the toddler. In fact, Viktor later left a comment on Loh’s post about the Indonesia Open saying “Vega will miss you the next few weeks.”
We’re not sure who’s luckier here; Viktor for winning the Open and celebrating with his sweet daughter, Loh for meeting Vega or Vega for meeting Loh!
Congrats to the Danish player, both on his win and for being such a responsible dad.
Sources: Xuan, Facebook, BadmintonPlanet.com
