Victor Lai Gears Up for All England Challenge with Axelsen’s Wisdom and a Crucial Physical Reboot
Canadian badminton sensation Victor Lai is on the cusp of his debut at the prestigious All England Open, a monumental challenge he’s approaching with a fresh perspective. The 23-year-old shuttler has revealed a simple yet profound philosophy, borrowed from Danish badminton legend Viktor Axelsen, that’s already reshaping his approach to the game. This newfound mindset, coupled with a significant physical reset, is positioning Lai for what could be his most impactful season yet.
During a pre-tournament discussion, Lai delved into his mental preparation for the upcoming event. He expressed a strong admiration for how Axelsen navigates the immense pressure inherent in elite sports. Axelsen’s consistent message of viewing pressure as a privilege has resonated deeply with Lai, influencing him even before he consciously adopted it.
“Pressure as privilege, it’s a pretty good quote,” Lai shared, reflecting on a moment during a tournament in Malaysia where a large contingent of fans were vocally supporting him. “It really encompasses what we go through as athletes. So of course, I felt a bit of pressure.”
However, it was in the aftermath of that event that the true impact of Axelsen’s philosophy became clear. Lai realised that the very pressure he felt was, in fact, a testament to his growing presence and appeal in the sport.
“But looking back after the tournament, it’s also a privilege that people want to come see you,” he explained. “No matter if it’s just to see the tournament, or specifically me, but just to have people want to watch you, that is a privilege. So that’s a good way of thinking.” This shift in perspective allows Lai to reframe the intensity of high-stakes competition not as a burden, but as an affirmation of his hard work and talent.
Beyond his mental fortitude, a critical factor contributing to Lai’s readiness for the All England Open is his recent physical recovery. The 2025 season was a gruelling affair for many athletes, characterised by a relentless schedule of back-to-back tournaments, leaving little room for rest or dedicated training. Fortunately, December 2025 provided Lai with a much-needed respite.
A stop in Hangzhou in late November, where he received the Eddy Choong award, granted the young Canadian a four-day hiatus from the court. This wasn’t just a brief pause; it was a complete break from all training regimens. No drills, no practice sessions – just pure rest and recovery.
The benefits of this period of rejuvenation were evident upon his return. Lai emerged with increased muscle mass, noticeably sharper movements on the court, and a more composed demeanour under pressure. His performance in the semi-finals of the India Open served as a strong indicator of this enhanced physical and mental state. Now, Lai is determined to carry this momentum forward, aiming to compete with a fearless spirit at the All England Open.
“It’s about playing with no fear,” he stated. “Just go over there and enjoy showing your level. Just play your best and don’t put too much pressure on yourself.” This mantra underscores his commitment to embracing the challenge and showcasing his capabilities without the debilitating weight of excessive expectation.
The All England Open represents a significant milestone in Lai’s burgeoning career. His preparation, a blend of adopting a resilient mindset inspired by one of the sport’s greatest and a crucial period of physical recuperation, suggests he is more than ready to make his mark on the world stage. Whether he can defy expectations and claim the coveted title remains to be seen, but his current trajectory and newfound approach indicate he’s a player to watch.
