'Life doesn’t always go as planned’: Viktor Axelsen, wife Natalia Rohde announce separation after four years of marriage

Viktor Axelsen and Natalia share two children together.

Two-time Olympic gold medallist and former World No. 1, Viktor Axelsen, has announced his separation from wife Natalia Koch Rohde, a former Danish badminton player after four years of marriage.

Announcing the news on his social media, Axelsen wrote, “Life doesn’t always go as planned. Natalia and I have decided to part ways on good terms.”

“Our primary focus will be on our two amazing girls and being the best possible parents for them during this difficult time. We kindly ask that everyone respects our privacy, and we don’t have any further comments,” he added.

Life doesn't always go as planned. Natalia and I have decided to part ways on good terms. Our primary focus will be on our two amazing girls and being the best possible parents for them during this difficult time. We kindly ask that everyone respects our privacy and we don’t have…

— Viktor Axelsen (@ViktorAxelsen) August 19, 2025

The pair have two daughters. Their first child was born in October 2020, and five months later, in 2021, Axelsen and Rohde tied the knot.

In the same year, the family relocated from Denmark to Dubai, where Axelsen continues to train at the NAS Sports Complex. The couple welcomed their second daughter, Aya Rohde Axelsen in 2022.

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Who is Natalia Koch Rohde?

Natalia Koch Rohde has had a decent badminton career before she announced her retirement from the sport in 2018.

She won four titles at the BWF International Challenge/Series, two European Mixed Team Championship golds in 2015 and 2017 (along with a silver in 2013), and two European Women’s Team Championship golds in 2016 and 2018, respectively.

Why did Viktor Axelsen withdraw from BWF World Championships 2025?

Meanwhile, Axelsen is not only dealing with personal upheaval but also professional setbacks. The reigning two-time world champion has pulled out of the upcoming BWF World Championships, scheduled to begin on August 25, due to injury.

“After careful consultation with my medical team, I’ve been advised to dedicate more time to my rehabilitation,” Axelsen informed fans via X (Formerly Twitter).

The Danish star has already enjoyed success in the 2025 season, winning titles at both the India Open and the German Open.

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However, his campaign took a blow at the All England Open, where he suffered a shock first-round exit to Lin Chun-Yi while struggling with back pain. Not long after, Axelsen underwent endoscopic surgery to repair a disc herniation.

Fans had hoped for his return in Paris, but Axelsen confirmed he would not be ready. “I unfortunately won’t be tournament-ready in time to compete safely at the World Championships. While it’s tough to miss such a big event, I’m not discouraged.

“On the contrary, I’m highly motivated to keep pushing forward with my rehab and set myself a new goal to come back stronger,” he said.

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