Kidambi Srikanth is a threat to World Championship dream, says Viktor Axelsen

"There are a lot of threats on my way to gold (at World Championships). Srikanth of India has been playing really well, and of course, there are the likes of Lin Dan, Chen Long and Lee Chong Wei," said Viktor Axelsen to PTI reporters.

"It's a really open category at the moment. There are too many names to say and just a few people who could do well", he added.

The current World No.3, Axelsen has an even record against Srikanth as both of them are presently locked 2-2 in the head-to-head battles. But Srikanth has been in fine form in 2017 so far as he bagged consecutive titles at the Indonesian Open and the Australian Open. Moreover, his recent performances have seen him move to no.8 in the BWF World Rankings and he also leads the Destination Dubai Rankings and given his recent form he is undoubtedly considered one of the favourites for the World Championships.

"The World Championships, along with the Olympics and Thomas Cup, are the events which we most look forward to, so I'm really excited," said Axelsen, who has bagged the European and Thomas Cup titles already.

Speaking of his chances at the event, Axelsen said he believes in himself and in his skills, even as he has been trying to recover his fitness following a foot injury. 

"I've had a few issues with my foot leading up to this tournament, however, it is under control now. I am getting more and more into the rhythm. Hopefully, I can be in good form. I have to believe in myself and believe that a world title is possible," he added.

The 23-year-old had won a bronze on home soil three years ago and also won gold at the BWF World Superseries Finals in December last year and he revealed his long-standing dream of becoming The World Champion.

 "Since I was a little child, I have always dreamt of becoming world champion. It would be a huge achievement and something that I will keep chasing for the rest of my career. The World Championship is so special to me, so to win that would be a big dream come true," said Alexsen on his dream of winning the gold at World Championship.

What will be Carlos Brathwaite's Strike Rate?

Presenting Nostragamus, the first ever prediction game that covers all sports, including Cricket. Play the CPL challenge and win cash prizes daily!!

Download the app for FREE and get Rs.20 joining BONUS. Join 30,000 other users who win cash by playing NostraGamus. Click here to download the app for FREE on android!