Viktor Axelsen Triumphs Again as Olympic Badminton Champion

Viktor Axelsen defended his Olympic badminton men's singles title by defeating Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand. Celebrating with fans, he became the first European to win back-to-back badminton singles gold. China, South Korea, Japan, and Malaysia also secured medals in the event.

Viktor Axelsen is once again the Olympic badminton champion. The 30-year-old from Denmark defended his men's singles title Monday by beating Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand for the gold medal. Axelsen defeated Vitidsarn 21-11, 21-11 in the final in just 52 minutes.

Axelsen celebrated by running around the court and waving the red-and-white Danish flag over his head. Fans in the stands chanted, "Viktor! Viktor!" Axelsen went over to a young fan and handed over his racket while receiving a constant standing ovation from the crowd. Axelsen became the first European to win back-to-back badminton singles gold at the Olympics. Like in Tokyo three years ago, his medal in Paris is the only one earned by a European in the sport.

China won five badminton medals; two silvers and three bronze. South Korea, Japan and Malaysia had two apiece.

An Se-young of South Korea beat He Bing Jiao of China for bronze earlier in the day.

(With inputs from agencies.)