KUALA LUMPUR: Denmark's Olympic badminton champion Viktor Axelsen has announced that he and his wife, Natalia Koch Rohde, have separated.

The world No. 1 men's singles shuttler revealed the news in a social media statement yesterday, describing the decision as mutual.

"Life doesn't always go as planned," wrote Axelsen on X. "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."

Axelsen, 31, and Rohde, 30, married in March 2021 after several years together. They have two daughters — Vega, born in 2020, and Aya, born in 2022.

Rohde is a former Danish international shuttler who retired in 2018 after winning several European circuit titles. Her father, Henrik Rohde, was part of Axelsen's coaching setup before the Olympic champion added compatriot Peter Gade to his team.

In 2021, Axelsen relocated his family to Dubai for health reasons and to ease travel commitments in Asia. He is currently based at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex.

The announcement comes just a week after Axelsen withdrew from the World Championships, citing the need to focus on his recovery following back surgery.