For many years Denmark has had men’s singles players at the very top. Poul Erik Høyer, Peter Rasmussen, Peter Gade and Viktor Axelsen to name a few. One, who could be the next big name, is 18 year old, Magnus Johannesen.

Despite his young age Johannesen has already shown some impressive results. Back in 2017 he became runner-up at the European U17 Championships in men’s singles losing out to Georgii Karpov from Russia in the final. 

- I see my talent as I could be one of the big profiles at the top of the world, but I also know that talent is one thing and the will to win and work hard is something totally different, but just as important. 

Going back a couple of months when the National Championship were held in Denmark, Johannesen really showed what he's got by getting into the semifinals along with Hans-Kristian Vittinghus, Jan O Jorgensen and Viktor Axelsen. In the quarter finals Johannesen beat Anders Antonsen 21-11 21-17. At this event players mentioned Johannesen to be one of the upcoming stars. 

- Of course it is great to be acknowledged, it gives a boost. It shows that all the hours you spend training pays off, but it is not something I think about a lot. 

Read: Cheryl Seinen: I was quite surprised that I was chosen

The idols 

Growing up most players had at least one player who they looked up to and wanted to be like. For Johannesen that is not any different, actually he has two.

- I have several inspirations. Mi biggest idol in badminton is definitely Lin Dan. At the same time I also think Kento Momota has some really cool things in his game that I can learn from. 

It might not be everyone who knows the name Magnus Johannesen yet. Asking him which player he reminds of, he says. 

- If I should mention one player, I would probably say Momota. I have definitely learnt a lot by watching him play. 

Talking about the dreams and goals of the young man’s career, you would expect him to start out with smaller goals and then build up along the way, but no, Johannesen sets his bars high. 

- My big dream is to be world’s number one, World Champion and Olympic Champion. That is why I spend so much time on this. At the same time I think it is fun, which makes it easier.